Abstract
This study investigates the impact of robotics integration on the development of 21st-century skills and competencies within the context of Grade 5 natural sciences classrooms. As the 21st century unfolds, the demand for learners to acquire skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and digital literacy has never been more imperative. Robotics, with its interdisciplinary nature, holds significant potential as a tool for fostering these essential skills. In this research, an explanatory sequential mixed-methods approach is employed to explore the experiences of Grade 5 learners as they engage with robotics in the context of natural sciences education. This research entailed the intentional selection of 4 fifth-grade teachers and 202 learners from four primary schools in South Africa. The study involved the design and implementation of robotics-based activities, complementing the existing curriculum. Data collection methods include observations, surveys, and qualitative interviews with both learners and teachers. The findings from this study aim to shed light on the ways in which robotics integration influences the acquisition of skills such as creativity, communication, adaptability, and technological proficiency in Grade 5 natural sciences classrooms. Additionally, the research seeks to identify potential challenges and best practices in integrating robotics into science education, with a focus on grade-level appropriateness and curriculum alignment. The results demonstrated that the incorporation of robotics has a beneficial impact on the acquisition of 21st-century skills, leading to increased learner engagement, enhanced creativity, and improved teamwork among the learners. The implications of this research are twofold: firstly, it contributes to the understanding of how emerging educational technologies can enhance 21st-century skill development within a specific educational context, and secondly, it informs teachers and policymakers about the potential benefits of robotics integration in fostering a holistic and forward-thinking approach to science education. Ultimately, this study serves as a stepping stone in the ongoing dialogue surrounding the integration of robotics as a catalyst for preparing learners for the challenges of the 21st century.
Keywords: 21st-century skills, Competencies, Natural Sciences, Robotics integration, Skill acquisition