Engaging High School Students in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Through Robotics Engineering Design Challenges

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Thursday 8:00 am Four Seasons Ballroom 1
  In Roundtable Session: Teaching STEM Using Technology (Table 9)

Abstract

This pre-/posttest embedded mixed-methods study adds to the scarce body of literature on interdisciplinary education in engineering design, robotics, and AI. It developed, implemented, and evaluated a project-based Engineering Design+Robotics+AI curriculum with novice Computer Science (CS) high school students. The curriculum introduced students to robotics, Machine Learning, and AI. Students’ collaborative robotics projects were framed using an engineering design process model to promote student engagement and interest through design-based, hands-on learning. An analysis of quantitative and qualitative data revealed an improvement in student CS attitudes and social interactions after participating in the curriculum. Working on robotics engineering design challenges enhanced students’ project experiences and promoted creativity and engagement in the CS classroom

Authors

• Elena Novak, Kent State University

• Sima Ahmadi, Kent State University

• Shannon Smith, Kent State University

• Sophia Matar, Kent State University

• Jong-Hoon Kim, Kent State University

• Lisa A. Borgerding, Kent State University