The rise of Robotics is something that has to be embraced within the classroom in order to prepare the future generations for a world in which automation is far more ubiquitous than it is today. In fact, the use of robotics as an educational tool can augment learning for students of all ages and build their skills through a more engaging learning experience. So what kinds of robotic technologies are already being used to educate and innovate in schools and universities, and how will their impact expand going forward?  Active Robots explore Educational Robots found in the classroom.  Introducing Robotics through NAO Although robotic systems are innately complicated, the emergence of NAO has enabled educators to latch on to an approachable and intuitive way in which younger children can be introduced to the key concepts, while actually getting their hands on hardware at the same time. Humanoid design makes it easy for kids to relate to NAO, while under the friendly exterior is a fully programmable set of mechanisms which allow pupils to get an understanding of how robotics can be applied to a wide variety of tasks. Running on a variety of popular programming languages and offering impressive wireless use, along with built-in cameras for imaging, NAO will soon be seen in classrooms on a much wider scale. New Developments - 3D Printing When it comes to developing the underpinnings of robotics systems, it would have been difficult for educational institutes to achieve the manufacturing side of things on-site in the past. But the emergence of 3D printing and affordable machines designed to create tangible objects and stimulate students’ creative sides has made so much possible. Children can see their designs appear before their eyes and then get on with the business of testing them to see if they work as intended. Learning Through Play - Lego Robotics Lego has long been a great way of getting kids to connect with design and engineering concepts from an early age.  The same is now being applied in the field of robotics to prepare children for the technological world around them. It allows even the youngest children to get to grips with this blocky world, with small parts all coming together to make a much complicated whole. The future of robotics in the classroom looks bright and set to expand.  Children today are among the first to experience this and this will set them up for successful, future careers.