The Impact of Educational Robots as Learning Tools in Specific Technical Classes in Undergraduate Education

• Tatiana M.B. Santos UFF
• Johann S.J.C.C. Amorim CEFET-RJ
• Mirella M. de O. Carneiro UFRJ
• Victor F. Campos CEFET-RJ
• Aline G. Manhães CEFET-RJ
• José Lima Instituto Politécnico de Bragança / INESC Technology and Science
• Milena F. Pinto CEFET-RJ

Resumo

The use of mobile robots in the classroom has gained increasing attention in recent years due to their potential to enhance student engagement and facilitate personalized learning. This research presents the insertion of mobile robots as a hands-on learning experience in Control and Servomechanisms II and Signal Processing II classes. This work also addresses the challenges and limitations of using mobile robots in the classroom, including technical difficulties. The students were evaluated during the code implementation in the practical exercises. Besides, a form was provided to them in order to assess the impact of these robots as part of the pedagogical practice. From the students’ positive feedback, it was possible to conclude that the mobile robots were well-accepted. Besides, the robots enhanced Control Systems classes and improved students’ learning outcomes.

Palavras-chave: Robotics, Project-based Learning, Control Systems, Signal Processing, Education