ABSTRACT VIEW
COMPUTATIONAL THINKING IN PRIMARY EDUCATION: CREATIVE APPROACHES WITH OZOBOTS AND THE COOL IT METHOD
C. Hörmann, M. Unterweger, L. Kuka, B. Sabitzer
Johannes Kepler University Linz (AUSTRIA)
Integrating Computational Thinking into early education presents unique challenges and opportunities. This practical report explores an innovative workshop designed for 1st and 2nd graders, combining coding and robotics with creative crafting to engage technical and artistic interested learners. Using Ozobots - small, programmable robots - as a central tool, the workshop merges playful coding activities with hands-on crafting, where children create personalized costumes for their robots. This dual approach fosters problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration, aligning with the COOL IT (Creative Open-Oriented Learning and Informatics Teaching) framework developed to make computer science accessible, fun, and engaging for children. The COOL IT approach addresses the global shortage of technology and computer science experts, particularly among females, by reducing fears of technology and sparking an early interest in informatics. Rooted in discovery, cooperation, individuality, and activity principles, COOL IT incorporates playful, illustrative methods to teach informatics concepts such as algorithms and modeling while enhancing learning in other subjects. COOL IT fosters enthusiasm for computer science from elementary to university levels by showing that technology can be motivating, enjoyable, and approachable. The workshop's coding segment introduces young learners to foundational programming concepts, such as sequencing and debugging, through age-appropriate and hands-on challenges designed to build confidence and curiosity. The crafting segment complements this by encouraging creativity, teamwork, and self-expression as students design costumes for their Ozobots, blending technical and artistic exploration. By bridging these two elements, the workshop ensures inclusivity and caters to diverse learner profiles, making Computational Thinking accessible and fun. Preliminary observations reveal that this combination supports the development of Computational Thinking skills, increases interest in technology, and helps children view computer science as an approachable and exciting field. This report details the workshop's structure, alignment with the COOL IT framework, and practical recommendations for implementing similar activities in primary education settings.

Keywords: Computational thinking, Primary Education, Robotics, Creativity, Coding, COOL IT.

Event: EDULEARN25
Track: STEM Education
Session: Computer Science Education
Session type: VIRTUAL