A SURVEY-BASED RESEARCH ON USING EDUCATIONAL ROBOTS TO DEVELOP COMPUTATIONAL THINKING IN PRESCHOOL: A CASE STUDY IN THU DUC CITY

A SURVEY-BASED RESEARCH ON USING EDUCATIONAL ROBOTS TO DEVELOP COMPUTATIONAL THINKING IN PRESCHOOL: A CASE STUDY IN THU DUC CITY

Nguyen Ngoc Tram Anh 23951003@student.hcmute.edu.vn Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology and Education No. 01 Vo Van Ngan, Thu Duc ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Bui Van Hong* hongbv@hcmute.edu.vn Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology and Education No. 01 Vo Van Ngan, Thu Duc ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Phan Nguyen Truc Phuong phuongpnt.ncs@hcmute.edu.vn Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology and Education No. 01 Vo Van Ngan, Thu Duc ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Nguyen Dang Khoa 23951017@student.hcmute.edu.vn Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology and Education No. 01 Vo Van Ngan, Thu Duc ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Tong Van Quynh 22146047@student.hcmute.edu.vn Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology and Education No. 01 Vo Van Ngan, Thu Duc ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Nguyen Han The 22146053@student.hcmute.edu.vn Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology and Education No. 01 Vo Van Ngan, Thu Duc ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Summary: 
In the context of digital transformation and the orientation towards STEM education, fostering a programming mindset in children aged 3-6 in Vietnam has gained attention but lacks empirical evidence. This study was conducted to identify the needs, conditions, and techno pedagogical requirements for the application of educational robots at the preschool level. Survey results from teachers and parents show a high consensus on the necessity of this approach and the readiness to participate in trials. The top priorities for robot design include an intuitive interface, Vietnamese voice support, a safe and durable exterior, and multimedia feedback. Although infrastructure such as smart TVs and tablets is readily available, the main barriers remain cost, complexity of use, and the need for training. Based on these findings, the study proposed a specific set of design requirements and age-appropriate activity scenarios. The results not only cover a domestic research gap but also provide a basis for developing local products, enhancing digital competence for teachers, and informing policies related to standards and technology investment.
Keywords: 
Educational robots
computational thinking
preschool
early childhood.
Refers: 

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