Janice Anderson

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Janice Anderson is a pioneering researcher in early childhood STEM education, with a particular focus on robotics as a transformative learning tool for young children. Her work centers on integrating engineering and programming concepts into early learning environments, demonstrating that even children as young as four can engage meaningfully with technology. Anderson’s most cited paper, “Innovative session: early childhood robotics for learning” (2006, 17 citations), introduces programmable LEGO® bricks as powerful manipulatives that foster cognitive development and foundational computational thinking. Through this work, she has helped shift the conversation around early childhood education, advocating for hands-on, play-based approaches that build essential skills in problem-solving and creativity. While her citation count reflects the niche but growing nature of her field, Anderson’s contributions have influenced curriculum design and teacher training programs, positioning her as a key voice in the movement to bring robotics into early classrooms. Her research continues to inspire educators and researchers to rethink what is possible in early STEM learning.