ABSTRACT VIEW
Abstract NUM 2720

IMPACT OF ROBOTICS EDUCATION ON STEM LEARNING OUTCOMES: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF EVIDENCE
A. Nyambi, C.T. Orji
University of the Witwatersrand (SOUTH AFRICA)
This systematic review examines the impact of robotics education on STEM learning outcomes, synthesizing evidence from studies conducted over the past decade to assess how robotics-based learning influences student engagement, knowledge acquisition, and skill development in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). The review seeks to identify the key factors that contribute to successful outcomes in STEM education through the integration of robotics and explore the mechanisms through which robotics can enhance learning in these domains.

The methodology followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A comprehensive search was conducted using across Scopus databases for studies published between 2015 and 2025. Keywords such as “robotics education,” “STEM outcomes,” and “STEM learning” were used to identify relevant studies. Inclusion criteria focused on peer-reviewed articles that evaluated the effectiveness of robotics in improving STEM learning outcomes in primary, secondary, and tertiary education settings. After screening, 65 studies were selected, and data were extracted using a standardized framework. The results were synthesized narratively and assessed using quality checklists to ensure validity and minimize bias.

The findings reveal that robotics education significantly improves STEM learning outcomes by fostering increased engagement, problem-solving skills, and hands-on learning experiences. Robotics tools facilitate active learning, encourage critical thinking, and support the development of technical skills that are essential for future STEM careers. Additionally, the review highlights the role of robotics in promoting collaboration, creativity, and motivation among students. However, challenges such as the need for adequate teacher training, access to resources, and alignment with curriculum standards were identified. This review provides essential insights for educators, policymakers, and researchers who aim to leverage robotics education to improve STEM learning outcomes.

Keywords: Robotics education, STEM learning outcomes, hands-on learning, problem-solving skills, STEM engagement, critical thinking, teacher training.

Event: ICERI2025
Track: Digital Transformation of Education
Session: Educational Programming & Robotics
Session type: VIRTUAL