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A First Spotlight: Introducing Educational Robotics in the Ecuadorian Public School

Abstract:

Both teachers and researchers have brought their attention to Educational Robotics during the last years. This beneficial ICT tool is increasingly used in basic education, making the action of "operate robots"a natural part of the learning experience. Unfortunately, Educational Robotics (ER) has not been explored deeply in Ecuadorian public schools. This article shows a case study where, through a training program in ER, tools such as LEGO® Robotics and WeDo 2.0 are introduced to teachers of the Ministry of Education of Ecuador (online workshop). Mainly, our research reveals 1) the method for the implementation of a 5-module virtual workshop; and 2) an experimental study which validates that there are significant changes in the teachers' knowledge regarding ER after participating in the workshop. Finally, the shortcomings of the ER use, lessons learned and main key points are underlined.