LEGO Robotics and Early Learners: Designing Technology-Based Learning Environments

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Friday 9:50 am Four Seasons Ballroom 2-3
  In Roundtable Session: Design, Evaluation, and Impact of Technology-Enhanced Learning Environments in Education (Table 13)

Abstract

This study examines the design of a LEGO robotics program in a technology-based learning environment for early learners. We employed teacher noticing in our collaboration with elementary school teachers to better understand how they design, implement, reflect on, and revise robotics instruction in their classrooms. Findings suggest that Mrs. Vega and Ms. Edwards designed and implemented instruction that was culturally relevant and supported social-emotional learning; they engaged students through collaborative small groups and productive struggle; they reflected to assess student learning and consider how instruction may be need to be revised to better support student engagement; and, they revised their instruction to give students more time with challenging robotics concepts to transform students’ struggles into productive learning.

Authors

• Alison K. Munzer, University of California - Los Angeles

• Ilke Bayazitli, University of California - Berkeley

• Jabari Mahiri, University of California - Berkeley