Educational Robotics for Developing Computational Thinking in Young Learners: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Educational Technology
• Computer Science Education
• K-12 Learning

Background:

• Educational robotics offers interactive environments for developing computational thinking (CT).
• K-12 education increasingly adopts robotics to foster essential digital skills.
• Systematic reviews are needed to synthesize research on robotics for CT development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically examine empirical research on educational robotics for CT development in young learners (pre-K to 6th grade).
• To identify commonly studied CT skills, robotics kits, and pedagogical strategies.
• To provide guidance for future robotics activity design and identify research gaps.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of 22 peer-reviewed empirical studies published between 2012 and 2021.
• Analysis focused on educational settings, activity durations, CT skills, robotics platforms, and instructional strategies.
• Identification of developmentally appropriate practices for CT development.

Main Results:

• Robotics for CT development is predominantly studied in formal education settings.
• Commonly targeted CT skills include Sequencing, Conditionals, Loops, Debugging, and Algorithmic Thinking.
• LEGO Mindstorms kits and strategies like collaborative, project-based, and embodied learning are frequently used.

Conclusions:

• Educational robotics is a viable tool for fostering CT in young learners.
• LEGO Mindstorms and specific pedagogical approaches are effective for CT development.
• Further research is recommended to address identified gaps in robotics for CT education.