Roversa: A Low-Cost, Multilingual Robotics Platform for K-12 Computer Science Integration (Poster 10)

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Friday 1:30 p.m.
  In Poster Session: Advanced Technologies for Learning Poster Session 2

Abstract

Robots can help learners develop computer science (CS) skills, provide engagement opportunities, and help teachers integrate CS into curricula. Existing robots are often cost-prohibitive for low-resource schools, broadening the gap in CS. This participatory design study outlines Roversa, a low-cost and multilingual robotics platform for elementary school. Robot guided by principles of the Educational Robotics Application (ERA) Framework. We describe development, technical background, and features. Two groups of educators from two different school districts, provided usability feedback on Roversa in an exploratory discussion. We aligned conversations during educator interactions with Roversa to the ERA Framework. Educators were favorable to Roversa, providing feedback on all five aspects of the framework and future areas of improvement.

Authors

• Kim Wilkens, University of Virginia

• Alejandro Espinal, Universidad del Norte

• Camilo Vieira, Universidad del Norte

• Paola Harris, Universidad del Norte

• Jennifer L. Chiu, University of Virginia

• Jennie Chiu, University of Virginia