Robot technology and numbers in the classroom

Abstract

This paper describes an initial exploration of how a cubic user-configurable modular robotic system can be used to support learning about numbers and how they are pronounced. The development is done in collaboration with a class of 7-8 year old children and their mathematics teacher. The tool is called Number Blocks and it combines physical interaction, learning, and immediate feedback. Number Blocks supports the children's understanding of place value in the sense that it allows them to experiment with creating large numbers. Surprisingly, the children found it great fun to pronounce very large numbers, and also competed to find who could build the largest number. This created a close link between the stated learning goals, game play, and the Number Block tool.