Developing Mathematical Competencies Through Makeblock mBot Programming in Computer Modelling Education

Abstract

This paper posits that engaging junior high school students in computer modeling through the programming of the educational robot Makeblock mBot improves their mathematical skills by contributing to a deeper understanding of geometric concepts, problem-solving abilities, and data analysis. Additionally, this approach encourages interdisciplinary learning between mathematics, physics, and robotics. Based on the methods of theoretical analysis of various educational standards and synthesis of the necessary competencies, specific projects for mBot programming with the block environment Makeblock are constructed. Each project is described by a technological map containing the main characteristics of the project, the interdisciplinary connections, and the developed competences. The implemented codes are organized and stored in an open access repository. As a result, the opportunity to apply a project-based approach to developing mathematical skills through programming the educational robot mBot is supported.