In the school year 2014/15, a new optional subject, Computer Science, was introduced in the second triennium of elementary school.
In the first part of the diploma thesis, the constructionist teaching method is defined. It is based on teaching in a way that pupils are truly active and learn by actually working on something. The pioneer of this theory is Papert. His view on teaching is described in the diploma thesis.
The second part of the thesis presents the simple tool LEGO Education WeDo (LEGO building blocks, miniature engines, sensors, …), which helps the pupil learn the basics of programming and their use in everday life. With the help of LEGO Education WeDO, we encourage cooperative learning and communication skills. LEGO Education WeDo is well-adjusted to motivate children in the first or second triennium of elementary school, as it involves assembling LEGO building blocks to form various shapes, making it possible to then programme these shapes to move as wanted by using simple commands in the programme Scratch.
In the diploma thesis, teaching methods using LEGO Education WeDo elsewhere around the world are described.
Ultimately, the thesis describes the course of lessons using LEGO Education WeDo, which can be of assitance to teachers planning lessons of Computer Science, an optional subject in the 4th year of elementary school.
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