Alanah-Rei Castledine

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About

Dr. Alanah-Rei Castledine is a leading voice in primary education research, best known for her pioneering work in authentic problem-solving pedagogy and the integration of tangible technologies in the classroom. Her most influential study, "LEGO Robotics: An authentic problem solving tool?" (2023), has garnered 86 citations, establishing her as a key figure in the movement to bridge theoretical curricula with real-world application. In this landmark work, Dr. Castledine systematically investigated whether LEGO robotics can effectively cultivate genuine problem-solving strategies in primary students, moving beyond rote learning to foster critical thinking and hands-on engagement. Her findings provide educators with a robust, evidence-based framework for implementing robotics as a dynamic tool for authentic learning experiences. By demonstrating how young learners naturally adopt and refine problem-solving approaches through iterative design and construction, Dr. Castledine’s research has directly influenced modern STEM education policy and classroom practice. Her work continues to inspire a generation of educators to rethink the role of play and technology in developing foundational cognitive skills, making her a vital contributor to the future of primary education.