ERIC Number: EJ804931
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2008-Feb
Pages: 11
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1059-0145
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Available Date: N/A
New Pathways into Robotics: Strategies for Broadening Participation
Rusk, Natalie; Resnick, Mitchel; Berg, Robbie; Pezalla-Granlund, Margaret
Journal of Science Education and Technology, v17 n1 p59-69 Feb 2008
This paper suggests new strategies for introducing students to robotics technologies and concepts, and argues for the importance of providing multiple entry points into robotics. In particular, the paper describes four strategies that have been successful in engaging a broad range of learners: (1) focusing on themes, not just challenges; (2) combining art and engineering; (3) encouraging storytelling; (4) organizing exhibitions, rather than competitions. The paper describes a new technology, called the PicoCricket, that supports these strategies by enabling young people to design and program artistic creations that integrate light, sound, music, and motion. The paper concludes with an analysis of robotics activities in three educational environments, examining how these new strategies and technologies can engage young people with diverse interests and learning styles.
Descriptors: Students, Robotics, Learning Motivation, Student Participation, Integrated Activities, Engineering, Story Telling, Exhibits, Educational Environment
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Evaluative
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
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