Long term effects of educational robots on a Grade 9 girl's perceptions of science and math

Abstract

A review of literature highlighted a few important aspects of using robotics for educational purposes. However, most of the studies did not examine the long term effects of educational robots, but only considered a short period of time, when their participants were involved in robotics courses. Also, in most of the studies, the gender differences are not considered and the effects of robotics on girls are overlooked. This case study examines the effects of educational robots on Sarah, a grade 9 student who has attended in a robotics summer camp when she finished her Grade 8. The participants of this study include Sarah and her mother, who is a science teacher. This case study examines the long term effects of educational robots on Sarah, almost one year after she finished her summer camp robotics course. Based on the preliminary results of this study, the long term effects of robotics on Sarah include motivating her to learn mathematics, science, and technology. The results also show that using robotics in the education system would result in fewer gender-based stereotypes, regarding technical majors and careers. This study shows that robotics also could create an environment where Sarah, as a girl, were immersed in authentic education, and helped her improve her critical thinking and problem solving skills.