Strategies used by elementary schoolchildren solving robotics-based complex tasks: innovative potential of technology

Abstract

Robotics is being introduced in many schools as an innovative learning environment enhancing and building higher order thinking skills and abilities to help schoolchildren solve complex problems. As part of the New Brunswick Canadian Innovation Learning Funds program, we conducted a case study on robotics-based learning at one local elementary school with two groups of 11-12 year old students. We conducted several in-class observations and interviews. Two teams were asked to solve one robotics-based task and to think aloud explaining what they were doing and why. We discuss our findings suggesting the emergence of situational awareness and critical thinking in students.