How K-12 Classrooms Can Benefit From Robotics

BEAS DEV RALHAN Jan 21, 2021

Traditionally, schools focused on theory-based learning with minimal focus on practical knowledge. However, technology-enabled teaching-learning practices have become predominant in today’s education system. As a result, digital classrooms and e-learning solutions are gaining popularity. Schools have started realising the need of keeping up with the demands of the technology-driven world and are thus introducing robotics in the curriculum. When students get an opportunity to explore robots and learn about them on their own, they will better understand the intricacies and capabilities of robots. This prepares students for the future and helps them develop an interest in science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics. Be it nurturing creativity amongst learners, encouraging them to explore and innovate or developing 21st century skills, robotics is all about empowering learners.

New-age learning experiences

Introducing robotics in the K-12 curriculum will foster pedagogical shifts that will help students engage in learning rather than merely cramming the concepts.

Here are a few emerging approaches that’ll enhance the teaching-learning experience:

Project-Based Learning: This approach empowers students to solve real-world challenges, which, in turn, develops problem-solving skills. When students work in groups, they discuss what they’ve learned, which helps them strengthen their conceptual understanding.

360-Degree Learning: Robotics involves both theoretical and practical knowledge. When students design and programs a robot, it gives a hands-on experience and personalised learning by allowing students to explore new ways of solving problems that may arise while creating a robot.

Robotics in India

According to Markets and Markets, schools are expected to spend $640.5 million on robotics products and curricula in the next two years. So, it is evident that the importance of robotics is growing in the global academic sphere but it is still in its nascent stage in India.

To change this and prepare the young students for the future, the Government of India has established Atal Tinkering Labs in schools across the country. By working with tools and equipment to understand STEM concepts (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and participating in hands-on activities, students will develop an interest in STEM subjects and robotics.

Advantages of introducing robotics lab in the K–12 curriculum

Students develop and hone the following skills and qualities while learning robotics.

21st-century skills

When students learn to design and develop the robot, formulate a strategy to program it and resolve issues and bugs, they develop 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, creativity and communication. These skills not only prepare students for the future but also help them comprehend and quickly grasp new techniques.

Interdisciplinary learning

Robotics is interrelated to STEM subjects. Robotics provides students with a good opportunity to gain command over STEM subjects, thus facilitating interdisciplinary learning.

Collaboration and teamwork

Creating a robot promotes a collaborative learning environment and students automatically learn to work in teams.

Programming skills

Robotics helps students learn programming in a simple and tangible way.

Incorporating robotics in the K–12 curriculum allows students to better understand the STEM subjects and concepts, thereby building a strong foundation for learning and making them future-ready