STEM in action: robotics in education

When we hear the term robotics, we think of a machine that carries out tasks previously performed by humans, or humanoids capable of moving, as in science fiction series and movies. With the development of artificial intelligence, robots are becoming increasingly like us, both in appearance and in the depth of their thinking.

From an educational perspective, robotics combines science and technology, and fosters crucial skills such as creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. It also helps students develop teamwork skills, which are so important for holistic development. Thinking about robotics within an educational environment is not limited to vehicle-type robots completing challenges. Educational robotics is a powerful tool that prepares students for the challenges they will face in the future.

What is robotics?

Robotics is defined as a discipline that combines mechanical, electronic, computer and programming engineering to design and build automatic machines. Robots are programmed to carry out specific tasks autonomously or semi-autonomously, such as moving, manipulating objects, and interacting with their environment, with the aim of replicating or complementing human functions, performing repetitive tasks, or carrying out work in hazardous environments.

The first concepts of automated machines appeared thousands of years ago, such as automatons in ancient Greece or Egypt. In the 15th century, Leonardo da Vinci designed a humanoid automaton that could simulate basic movements. It was not until 1954, with the development of industrial robotics, that Unimate, the first programmable robot for assembly tasks, appeared. Unimate pushed for the integration of computing and autonomous systems into modern robots. Today, technologies such as Big Data, IoT (Internet of Things) and AI have allowed robots to learn and adapt to their environment.

Today, robotics has a presence in almost every sector with a wide range of applications. In the industrial sector, robots work in tandem with humans, automating processes to improve both productivity and safety in factories. Their impact is notable in the medical area, where they offer life support in treatments, assist in delicate surgeries, rehabilitation and accurate diagnoses. Even our everyday tasks benefit, with robots helping to vacuum or mow the lawn. On the other hand, agriculture is undergoing a robotic revolution that minimizes time and increases efficiency, with automated systems for cultivation and drones that inspect fields in a specialized way.

Educational robotics

Educational robotics combines theory and practice so that students learn scientific and technological concepts by building and programming robots. This approach motivates students and facilitates understanding by making the contents concrete and applicable.

In addition, robotics fosters skills in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and develops artistic and linguistic skills through collaborative projects. Students learn to work in a team, to communicate their ideas and to address real challenges, contributing to their integral and social formation.

This method integrates hands-on experimentation with interdisciplinary learning. It also boosts creativity, critical thinking, and social skills essential for the 21st century. Educational robotics provides students with experiences where they develop soft skills, such as communication and leadership, when presenting their projects. To apply the above, students design robotic solutions to authentic problems, such as a robot that collects garbage or an autonomous vehicle for deliveries. This allows them to consolidate what they have learned with concrete applications and integrate imagination through the programming of interactive stories or the creation of robotic artistic devices.

Projects allow students to experiment with STEM concepts in a fun and active way. Using kits like LEGO SPIKE Prime or Arduino, students build and program real-world challenges that bring classroom learning to practice. Thus, participation in robotics competitions and creative activities strengthens their technological skills and enhances the development of social and collaborative skills essential for their future.

How to Get Started in Educational Robotics

To start with educational robotics, it is important to define the objectives to be achieved, select the appropriate material and resources and prepare an appropriate learning environment that includes physical and digital spaces adapted to the activities. In addition, it is essential to seek the professional support of trained teachers or specialists in educational robotics who can facilitate the teaching process.

During the process, it is essential for children to experiment and be creative. Through educational robotics, students practice and innovate. Free experimentation allows them to learn from mistakes, develop critical thinking skills and find solutions to real problems, which helps them strengthen their autonomy and motivation. In this way, educational robotics transmits technical knowledge and contributes to the development of cognitive, social and emotional skills necessary to face the challenges of the twenty-first century.

A door to learning

Educational robotics transcends the teaching of codes and circuits. It is a powerful tool that promotes the integral development of students and combines intellectual curiosity with practical action. By allowing them to experiment, make mistakes and build on collaborative projects, it becomes the means to boost their autonomy, motivation and confidence in their own abilities to innovate.

In the end, educational robotics is about more than preparing future generations for STEM careers and equipping them with valuable tools for life. It turns learning into a dynamic, meaningful, and multidisciplinary process, connecting education with real-world innovations and challenges. It is, without a doubt, the door to a future where creativity and technology come together.