Utilizing Robotics in Maths in Primary Education A Case Study

The use of robotics and programming help to approach mathematical concepts in an alternative way through differentiated learning. The approach contributes to the cultivation of mathematical thinking through experimentation and code correction, through visualization, as well as the inclusion of students. The aim of the paper is to present how robotics and specifically the Lego Education Spike Essential were integrated into the teaching of Geometry in the 1st Grade of a Greek primary school. The activities were included in three teaching scenarios in the framework of the utilization of the new Greek curriculum. The evaluation of the action was done by investigating the opinions and attitudes of the students and with structured observation by the teacher. The students’ formative and final assessment were integrated into Moodle. Also, the programming of students’ constructions formed the final evaluation of the implementation. From the evaluation of the action, it emerged that the students understood mathematical concepts, they cultivated collaborative, digital and programming skills in a pleasant collaborative learning environment. It is proposed to utilize robotics from an early age in the teaching of mathematics in the new Greek curricula, as a means of cultivating students’ mathematical thinking.