Alfredo Pina

About

Alfredo Pina is a researcher whose work sits at the intersection of educational technology, robotics, and constructivist pedagogy, with a particular focus on how hands-on robotics activities can transform STEM learning across K-12 classrooms. His most cited work, "Representative examples of implementing educational robotics in school" (2008, 41 citations), established a foundational framework for understanding Educational Robotics as a cross-disciplinary tool spanning computer science, mathematics, design, and science education. Through his involvement in the pan-European TERECoP project (2006–2009), Pina contributed significantly to teacher training methodologies, helping educators across multiple countries integrate robotic technology into their classrooms using constructivist approaches. His research consistently champions inquiry-based science education (IBSE) and problem-based learning, demonstrating their practical application in real and virtual robotics environments. Early in his career, Pina also made contributions to computer animation, exploring autonomous actor modeling and avatar replication systems. With over 140 cumulative citations, his body of work has meaningfully shaped how educators and policymakers think about robotics as a vehicle for developing key competencies, offering a rich, evidence-based roadmap for schools seeking to bring constructionist learning to life.

Research Focus

Key Achievements

Top Papers

1. 1
   Representative examples of implementing educational robotics in school based on the constructivist appr oach

   41 citations · 2008
2. 2
   Introducing robotics to teachers and schools: experiences from the TERECoP project

   25 citations · 2010
3. 3
   Computer animation: from avatars to unrestricted autonomous actors (A survey on replication and modelling mechanisms)

   24 citations · 2000
4. 4
   In and out of the School Activities Implementing IBSE and Constructionist Learning Methodologies by Means of Robotics

   18 citations · 2012
5. 5
   Soft & Hard ideas to improve interaction with robots for Kids & Teachers

   12 citations · 2010
6. 6
   A PBL approach using virtual and real robots (with BYOB and LEGO NXT) to teaching learning key competences and standard curricula in primary level

   11 citations · 2013
7. 7
   TEACHER TRAINING IN THE SCIENTIFIC FIELD THROUGH ROBOTICS ACTIVITIES: SOME EXPERIENCES FROM ITALY & SPAIN.

   7 citations · 2009
8. 8
   In and out of the School Activities Implementing IBSE and Constructionist Learning Methodologies by Means of Robotics

   5 citations · 2013
9. 9
   Using Educational Robotics with Primary Level Students (6-12 Years Old) in Different Scholar Scenarios: Learned Lessons

   4 citations · 2017
10. 10
    Enseñanza-aprendizaje constructivista a través de la robótica educativa

    2 citations · 2010

Key Collaborators

Contact & Links