Teaching Computational Thinking and Programming Using Educational Robotics and Active Methodologies: An Experience Report Applied to Elementary School Students

• Vinícius Alves Silva Federal Institute of Southern Minas Gerais http://orcid.org/0000-0002-0726-7379
• Hugo Resende Federal Institute of Southern Minas Gerais https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9735-905X
• Hiran Nonato M. Ferreira Federal Institute of Southern Minas Gerais https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4977-9495

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5753/wpci.2024.245632

Abstract

Learning Computational Thinking and computer programming is widely recognized today as a significant challenge. To overcome the obstacles observed in this process, playful resources, such as educational robotics, can be utilized. In this context, this paper presents an experience report, with an evaluation from the instructors' perspective, on a methodological approach for teaching Computational Thinking and introductory programming logic concepts using educational robotics and active methodologies. The approach was based on short courses taught to seven classes in the final years of elementary school. The results show that the proposed approach positively influenced students' learning, autonomy, motivation, and engagement.

Keywords: Programming Education, Lego, Robotics, Active Methodologies

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