“Robots are happy to help me!” - Students' conceptions of robots and robot-like machines

Abstract

This paper examines children's and young people's ideas about robots and robot-like machines. Based on N = 73 explorative, guided interviews and supplementary drawings from Tyrol, concepts of materials, functions and fields of application of robots were analyzed. The results show a strong attribution of human-like characteristics and a dominant idea of metal as the primary material. In addition, there are uncertainties in the differentiation from other technical artifacts. These findings emphasize the need for didactic approaches to promote a well-founded and reflective discussion of robotics in technology lessons.