Proposed use of TinkerCad in primary school computer science classes to support Arduino programming

Abstract

– Nowadays, there is a strong emphasis on practical teaching, on teaching with the possibility of using what has been learned in the home environment or in leisure activities. This also requires the use of modern educational methods and, above all, modern teaching aids. This includes the TinkerCad environment accessible via a web interface. It allows not only full-fledged simulation but also the creation of your own program whether with deeper programming knowledge or just basic. Its great advantage is that it is freely accessible and without any large financial outlay spent on buying an Arduino board or other electronic components, it allows you to develop your own simpler and more complex projects. These can also be developed by pupils in teams, thus encouraging pupils to work collectively. Last but not least, we can also mention that using the simulation environment does not risk damaging the equipment and there is no risk of electric shock. Many pupils are very lively and interested in many things, and they can also accidentally damage equipment. In our work, we will focus on the design of such a project, where the Arduino calculates the product and sum from the two variables loaded. This will teach students how to use Arduino, LCD display, serial port with the aim of course to promote algorithmic thinking and increase interest in science among students. By managing all this without programming in a commonly used programming environment, it allows us to use this example in the upper primary school years, where pupils can use their existing knowledge creatively.