Fostering Human Skills Through Robotics
written by Carlo Poggi, Digital Learning Coach
As we prepare our students for the challenges of the future, we recognize the significance of a holistic approach to education, one that encompasses not only academics but also the fundamental human attributes necessary to thrive in life.
In the PYP section of H-FARM International School — Venice, we explicitly foster the essential human qualities that will guide our students’ journey throughout school and onward toward future success in life. Viewing and nurturing students holistically includes, but also goes well beyond, traditional academic progress.
One powerful tool that aids in this holistic development is robotics. When students engage in collaborative robotics projects, they learn valuable life skills such as teamwork, listening, decision-making, and self-reflection. These experiences go far beyond just programming robots; they create a well-rounded educational journey that builds essential life skills…
Collaboration is a cornerstone of success in today’s interconnected world. Robotics provides a unique platform for students to work together in small groups. As they collaborate to design and program robots, they learn the art of teamwork. They discover the importance of communication, delegating tasks, and respecting each team member’s ideas and opinions. These experiences foster a sense of unity, teaching students that achieving a common goal requires working harmoniously with others.
Listening is a skill that can take years to master, yet robotics offers an engaging way to nurture this ability from an early age. When working collaboratively in groups, students need to actively listen to their peers to understand their ideas and suggestions. They learn the importance of patience, empathy, and open-mindedness. These skills extend beyond our Design Lab, improving their interactions with teachers, parents, and peers in all aspects of life.
Decision-making is another vital skill that students hone through robotics. As they face challenges and obstacles in programming their robots to complete tasks, students must make informed decisions. These decisions require critical thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to weigh different options. By applying these skills regularly through robotics and other learning challenges, students become flexible and adept at posing, identifying and then solving problems. In addition to decision-making skills, creativity is necessary as students sort through options to choose an effective approach to a challenge or problem.
Self-reflection is the final piece of the puzzle that robotics helps students develop. After completing a robotics challenge, students are encouraged to reflect on their performance, both individually and as a team. They learn to acknowledge their strengths and areas for improvement. The self-awareness developed through reflection is a powerful tool for personal growth, helping students become more effective and responsible learners.
Robotics is not just about programming robots; it’s about nurturing the human factors that will shape our students’ future success. Through collaboration, active listening, decision-making, and self-reflection, students learn essential life skills that extend far beyond the school environment… By embracing the world of robotics we create opportunities for our young learners to feel empowered in an ever-changing world.
In conclusion, robotics is not just about programming robots; it’s about nurturing the human factors that will shape our students’ future success. Through collaboration, active listening, decision-making, and self-reflection, students learn essential life skills that extend far beyond the robotics lab.
As parents and teachers, let’s embrace the world of robotics and empower our young learners to thrive in an ever-changing world.
The author
Carlo has been working at H-FARM International School since 2018 as a Digital Learning Coach. His previous teaching experience was in Tanzania, teaching Middle School students and in Rome as a Technology Integration Specialist in the primary school. His previous career was as an Environmental Engineer. Carlo is passionate about technology and is constantly amazed at students’ responses when they are engaged with technology. He enjoys travelling and exploring remote areas, especially deserts and African countries. Carlo also enjoys good food.
