An Educational process for teaching-learning programming with educacional robotics in high school

Abstract

This thesis investigates the impact of the educational process for teaching-learning programming with Educational Robotics (ER) on the development of computational thinking (CT) among High School students. Toward this direction, it proposes an approach integrating ER into teaching-learning programming to enhance teaching effectiveness and CT skill development. Framed within Educational Design Research, the study addresses three key aspects: 1) The facilitation of CT skill acquisition through programming with ER, 2) The conformity of the educational process from an expert’s perspective, and 3) The impact of teaching-learning programming with ER on students’ CT skills. The research culminates in insights into the proposed educational process, named CTProgER. Supported by the Anthropological Theory of the Didactic and validated through the Delphi method and an intervention study, the CTProgER integrates the Román-Gonzalez CT Test to assess CT skills impact. The CTProgER conceptualizes six didactic moments and operationalizes an Institution [I] as the teaching space, linking input Object (O) representing knowledge to be taught to individuals (X) with the development of relations R(X,O). Additionally, specific instances (“The Cleaning Robot”, “The Accountant Robot”, and “The Driver Robot”) were developed in alignment with CTProgER guidelines, addressing programming and robotics aspects. A two-round Delphi method experiment engaged experts to validate CTProgER and its instances, refining strategies for validation and ensuring alignment with CTProgER guidelines. Finally, an intervention study evaluated CTProgER effectiveness among Computer Technical and Vocational High School students, demonstrating significant improvements in CT skills. The main contribution of this thesis is the development and availability of the validated educational process specifically designed for robotics teaching-learning, with a central focus on enhancing CT. High School students and teachers can benefit from implementing the CTProgER approach, fostering an understanding of promoting CT through teaching-learning programming with robotics.