In recent years, the integration of robotics and block programming into elementary education has gained momentum as educators seek innovative ways to engage students in computational thinking.
Rather than viewing programming as an abstract and complex skill reserved for specialists, schools are increasingly adopting visual block-based languages to make coding accessible and enjoyable for young learners.
This shift represents a fundamental change in how children interact with technology—not merely as passive consumers but as active creators, capable of designing and experimenting with their own digital projects.
The study presented in this article explores the impact of introducing robotics and block programming in primary education, focusing on both cognitive and motivational outcomes.
Through a structured pedagogical framework, students were exposed to computational concepts such as sequencing, loops, conditional statements, and event handling, applying these skills in practical activities with educational robots.
The findings highlight not only a significant improvement in students’ comprehension of computational concepts but also an increase in enthusiasm, engagement, and problem-solving abilities, reinforcing the value of hands-on learning in technology education.
By examining real classroom applications, this research underscores the potential of robotics and block programming as powerful tools for fostering digital literacy from an early age. The results suggest that when properly implemented, these approaches can transform the traditional learning environment into a more interactive and dynamic space, where students develop essential 21st-century skills.
As educational institutions continue to explore the best strategies for incorporating technology into the curriculum, studies like this provide valuable insights into how programming and robotics can be seamlessly integrated to enhance both learning outcomes and student motivation.
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How to cite: Sáez López, J. M., Buceta Otero, R., & De Lara García-Cervigón, S. (2021). Introducing robotics and block programming in elementary education. RIED. Revista Iberoamericana de Educación a Distancia, 24(1), 95–113. https://doi.org/10.5944/ried.24.1.27649
