Training program for dyslexic children using educational robotics

Abstract

This paper presents the implementation of a research project focused on the use of robotics as an effective tool in teaching technical disciplines to dyslexic children. Dyslexia is the most common learning disability and affects between 5 and 12 percent of all students. The goal of this project is to develop educational programs which will boost school performance of dyslexic children by using robotics in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Education (STEM). Studies have shown that robots can help students develop problem-solving abilities and learn computer programming, mathematics, and science. However, few studies discuss the use of robots in special education. We present the basic concept of using robotics as a mean to teach other subjects, and we describe the courses that are developed in the research project from the Department of Biomedical Science at the University of Medicine and Pharmacy Grigore T. Popa Iasi, project implemented to answer the needs of dyslexic children.