A Framework for Educational Robotics in Kindergarten

Abstract

This systematic review defines a framework for educational robotics in kindergarten. We performed our search in online databases via keyword search and snowball sampling. At the end of the process, we analyzed 46 papers. In-depth analysis of them has led to the identification of a four dimensions framework: (1) design and execution of robotics curricula: most of them used programmable floor robots, like Bee-Bot, but also more sophisticated tools, like KIBO; and tend to be created from scratch, often designed and carried out by researchers directly; (2) design and implementation of the research studies: there is a balance among adopted research methodologies (qualitative, quantitative and mixed); most studies are non-experimental; data are mainly collected by observations, tests, and interviews; (3) outcomes on the participants' skills: a large share of papers reports outcomes other than technical skills; it has also investigated the impact on soft and cognitive skills, learning engagement, and emotions; (4) the gender dimension: around one in five papers investigated it.