PyBoKids: An Innovative Python-Based Educational Framework Using Real and Simulated Arduino Robots

Abstract

In western countries, robotics is becoming increasingly common in primary and secondary education, both as a specific discipline and a tool to make science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects more appealing to children. The impact of robotics on society is also growing yearly, with new robotics applications in such things as autonomous cars, vacuum cleaners, and the area of logistics. In addition, the labor market is constantly demanding more professionals with robotics skills. This paper presents the PyBoKids framework for teaching robotics in secondary school, where its aim is to improve pre-university robotics education. It is based on the Python programming language and robots using an Arduino microprocessor. It includes a software infrastructure and a collection of practical exercises directed at pre-university students. The software infrastructure provides support for real and simulated robots. Moreover, we describe a pilot teaching project based on this framework, which was used by more than 2000 real students over the last two years.