The Impact of Robotics Competitions on Youth STEM Learning, Attitudes and 21st Century workplace Skills
Abstract: This study investigated the influence of an established robotics competition (FIRST LEGO League) on middle school youth’s learning of technology and engineering, and their attitudes towards science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, and 21century workplace skills. Using objective multiple-choice assessments and a pre-post repeated measures design, results showed significant increases in scores for content learning, 21st century skills, and robotics self-efficacy. Results suggest that informal learning experiences such as robotics competitions may be a useful link to help bridge the gap between content knowledge and competencies that students are learning in school and the knowledge and skills they need for success in their communities and workplace.