Minding the Gap. Proposing a Teacher Learning-Training Framework for the Integration of Robotics in Primary Schools

Abstract

Notwithstanding the hype surrounding the enthusiasm and rush that characterises the employment of robotics in formal educational contexts, their use is described as nothing less than fragmented. In the circumstances that processes of adoption and application of digital tools are clearly outpacing their accommodation and enactment in formal educational settings, a teacher-training framework for the integration of robotics in primary schools is being proposed. Anticipated to be editable in context by teachers, a mediating tool whose actions are defined by the Activity Theory is presented to provide a framework for activities, aims, learning outcomes and suggestive complementing hardware. Thematically built around a constructionist approach, and having a long-standing tradition in early childhood education, it should simultaneously enhance the student and teacher learning experience towards robotics in a meaningful manner.

Keywords

• activity theory
• constructionism
• learning guidance
• project based learning
• Robotics
• teacher training