"Coding Is Not My Thing": Fostering Early Childhood Teachers' Coding Knowledge and Attitudes

• In Event: AERA Poster Session 13
  In Poster Session: Division K Section 1 Poster Session 1

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to explore teachers’ knowledge and attitudes surrounding coding and robotics education in early childhood. This paper discusses a pilot study using the KIBO robotics kit, in which 24 second grade teachers participated in a 1-day professional development training and subsequently implemented a 12-hour KIBO curriculum. Over the course of the intervention, teachers were supported using virtual resources provided by the research team and in-person support provided by school personnel. The data revealed significant increases in teachers’ knowledge and attitudes over time and highlighted key factors that led to teachers’ varied perceptions and classroom experiences. This study offers insight into professional development and support resources for teaching coding in early elementary school.

Authors

• Madhu Govind, Tufts University

• Marina U. Bers, Tufts University