Educational Robotics and Broadening Participation in STEM for Underrepresented Student Groups

Engaging students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) is of particular interest to educators at all levels. Participation in these fields at the university level and beyond has decreased in recent years, and the issue is of particular interest in terms of the low representation of girls, minorities, and students with disabilities. This chapter will discuss the current state of research in the area of inclusive robotics at the pre-college level. In addition, strategies will be presented to help educators integrate robotics for diverse learners. Both pre-existing programs such as FIRST and self-developed activities will be discussed, including the selection of the robotics platform and programming software.