Robots as Mathematical Objects-and Actions-to-Think-With
Date
2018
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Copenhagen
Abstract
We investigated how robots might be used to design experiences that support the development of key mathematical proficiencies. Specifically, we sought to understand how the situated, movement-focused, and problem-driven spaces opened up by programming robots might enhance specific core mathematical competencies and how, in turn, those competencies might enable and amplify general mathematical understanding. To gain insight we video recorded children in Grades 4-6 as they engaged in programming robots. We selected three video clips that illustrate aspects of children using robots as objects and actions-to-think-with about the number line and a mutable grid.Our data illustrates how well-structured encounters with programming robots can support developing multiple understandings of the number.
Description
Keywords
Elementary, programming robots, number line, grids, mathematical understanding
Citation
Francis, K., & Davis, B. (2018). Robots as Mathematical Objects-and Actions-to-Think-With. In H.B Weigand et al. (Eds.), Proceedings of the 5thERME Topic Conference MEDA 2018 (pp. 91-98). Denmark, Copenhagen: University of Copenhagen.