SCHOOL Stem & Robotics Lab

School Stem & Robotics Lab

In alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, CBSE has mandated the establishment of “Composite Skill Labs,” which include STEM and robotics labs, in affiliated schools. These labs provide students with hands-on, practical learning experiences to develop skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

CBSE guidelines and requirements

CBSE has issued specific requirements for schools to set up Composite Skill Labs that incorporate robotics and other technology:

Mandatory for affiliation: All new schools seeking CBSE affiliation must have a fully-equipped Composite Skill Lab.
Existing schools: Schools with existing affiliations were given a three-year deadline from an August 2024 circular to establish these labs.
Space requirements: Schools can choose one of the following lab layouts:
- One lab covering 600 square feet for students in Classes 6 to 12.
- Two separate labs of 400 square feet each: one for Classes 6 to 10 and another for Classes 11 and 12.
Curriculum integration: The labs must seamlessly integrate with the existing curriculum, especially for schools offering skill subjects like Artificial Intelligence and Information Technology.
Infrastructure: Essential infrastructure includes power outlets, high-speed internet, proper ventilation, and workstations for group and individual projects.
Equipment: Labs should be furnished with age-appropriate robotics kits, 3D printers, computers, and sensors.
Teacher training: Comprehensive training must be provided to teachers to ensure they can effectively utilize the lab’s resources.

Benefits of STEM and Robotics Labs
Setting up these hands-on learning spaces offers significant advantages for students and schools:

Fosters creativity and innovation: Students are encouraged to experiment with new ideas and approach problems from innovative perspectives.
Develops critical thinking: Labs provide challenges that require students to analyze problems, test solutions, and iterate their designs.
Enhances problem-solving skills: Through hands-on experimentation, students learn logical thinking and troubleshooting, especially when building and programming robots.
Encourages collaboration: Many projects require group work, teaching students teamwork, communication, and social skills.
Prepares for future careers: By giving students practical skills aligned with industry needs, these labs enhance their employment prospects and readiness for a technology-driven world.
Increases engagement: The interactive, hands-on nature of the lab makes learning more fun and relevant than traditional, textbook-based lessons, which boosts student motivation.

Partnering with UNISC
UNISC specializes in designing, setting up, and providing curricula for STEM and Robotics Labs that comply with CBSE guidelines. We offer services such as:

Lab design and setup: Customized lab layouts, equipment procurement, and installation.
Curriculum integration: Aligning robotics and coding programs with NEP 2020 and CBSE standards.
Teacher training: Providing workshops and resources to prepare educators.
Competitions and projects: Offering platforms for students to compete in robotics challenges, such as the Codeavour competition.

Funding options
Securing funding is a key challenge for schools establishing these labs. Potential sources of financial support include:

Government initiatives: Various government-backed schemes and grants exist to promote STEM education.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Many corporations, particularly in the tech sector, provide grants and funding for STEM education as part of their CSR programs.
Non-profit organizations: Groups dedicated to advancing education often offer grants or resources for STEM projects.
Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborations between the government, schools, and businesses can pool resources and expertise.