Introducing Computer Science Education Through Robotics Education in Community-Engaged Contexts

Abstract

The introduction of computer science education (CSE) in schools is required to prepare the learners for future work and develop the required 21st century skills. However, for competent and confident learners, the educators need to be upskilled and trained to develop CSE teaching capacity and skills. The use of robotics education (RE) provides a more concrete (less abstract) environment for the introduction of CSE. Although CSE is introduced at schools, concern relates to the required access to quality training, required equipment and support from gatekeepers that delay or hinder the advancement of CSE. The good practices for the informal option of CE at higher education institutions (HEI), through engagement with and within a community of practice (COP), to provide access to quality CSE training and skills development to educators, visionary community leaders and learners is presented in terms of the balanced scorecard (BSC) perspectives of strategy, process, people, resources and growth and sustainability.