University Language Instructors Programming Robotic Learning Applications: Design and implementation of encouraging programming workshop experiences

Abstract

Educational robots serve multiple purposes, including language learning, social skills development for students with autism, and improving communication skills. This research emphasizes the role of educational professionals in designing robotic learning activities, highlighting their understanding of pedagogy and student needs. Two language instructors co-designed programming workshops which aimed to teach them how to program the social robot NAO. They implemented robotic language learning activities that were used by 35 students in Finnish language courses. The results of this research suggested that hands-on programming workshops are an effective way to learn robot programming. Maintaining motivation during the sessions is facilitated by setting clear and concrete goals, monitoring progress, acquiring new knowledge, and following a precise schedule. The instructors faced challenges such as unexpected responses from the robots, the initial complexity of the programming software, and apprehensions about programming based on prior knowledge of text-based programming languages.