Educational Robotics—Engage Young Students in Project-Based Learning

Abstract

This paper reports on the impact of a cross-generational project, which links seniors’ needs and high school students’ expertise with the development of the student’s self-efficacy, communication and collaboration skills as well as their interests. The project iBridge integrates in its framework several different out-school activities with the concrete development of a prototypical service assistant (a cuddly toy robot) for seniors. During the study, the self-efficacy is measured with questionnaires. Students’ communication skill is demonstrated during interviews and in their interactions training elderly people in computer technology. Collaboration skills and responsible work efforts are manifested in their team efforts to develop a robotic prototype. The study also shows different outcomes for students participating in iBridge and students who are not involved in the project.