Applications of robots in educational settings
Purvee Chauhan, Vikram Kapila · 2023
Educational robotics is founded on the fundamental learning theories of constructivism and constructionism under which ample opportunities are embedded for learners to construct their own learning. Specifically, the use of constructionism in robotics-based learning entails students designing, testing, and refining their own ideas and understanding as they pursue an authentic problem through hands-on explorations of physical manipulatives. Purposefully infusing robotics-based constructionist experiences with project-, competition-, and inquiry-based pedagogical strategies engenders deeper comprehension of concepts, improved motivation, and enhanced problem-solving skills. Several types of robots can be used to facilitate such active and collaborative learning experiences, for example, brick-based robots, modular kit-based robots, and pre-assembled robots, of which some utilize blocks- or text-based programming while still others are coded using physical blocks. Moreover, based on the learning settings, desired learning goals, and student backgrounds, robots can assume various roles in the learning process, for example, that of a tool or learning object, a peer or learning companion, and a tutor or teaching assistant. In support of this book’s goal of creating, embedding, and promoting meaningful robotics-enhanced educational experiences, this chapter discusses the fundamental learning theories and instructional approaches underlying educational robotics, types of robots used in educational settings, and uses of robots in teaching and learning. The chapter also illustrates several examples concerning the use of robotics as a learning tool in formal and informal learning settings.