Following Andy Perryer’s article about the challenges involved with integrating digital learning and AI tools effectively into education, Valeria Capetillo, Digital Learning Advisor in Chile, shares a successful example from one of our schools in Chile.  

Robotics programming for early years pupils at Colegio Manquecura Valle Lo Campino in Chile is helping to develop curiosity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills from a young age to shape students’ educational journey.

In this context, beyond following the latest technological trend, it is also giving pupils a deeper understanding of the surrounding environment. The programming of robots extends beyond mere instructions; it drives an understanding of the physical and digital world. Picture a captivating scenario where different groups of Kindergarten students from Colegio Manquecura Valle Lo Campino in Chile actively engage in peer-to-peer robot programming. This not only promotes technological understanding but also stimulates social and collaborative skills from an early age. The project was showcased at student roundtables during “School of the Future” 2023, a global conference for Cognita teams focused on digital learning and technology. This project allowed young children to become acquainted with fundamental concepts and develop key skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability – all crucial in the 21st century.

Given that domestic robots are already a reality, what better way to prepare children to comprehend and interact with their environment? Genuine digital literacy involves empowering students to understand not only technology but also its societal impact. From grasping the functioning of robots at home to learning to use emerging technologies ethically and responsibly, holistic education enables us to shape individuals who use technology to enhance the world around them. This early and active understanding of the technological environment prepares students to consciously utilise Artificial Intelligence and other emerging technologies, emphasising the importance of being informed and ethical users in an increasingly digital world.