Discovering epitrochoid curves with STEAM-based learning methods

Abstract

In this paper, we present a new teaching-learning technique for drawing and identifying several members of an important family of parametric curves based on educational robotics supported by dynamic geometry software. Epitrochoid curves are essential in teaching first-year computer science and engineering students mathematics. From a methodological point of view, these are usually attractive and aesthetic curves suitable to capture students' interest and give first-hand experiences and activities. To implement a new STEAM-based learning method in this field, we created a drawing LEGO robot to visualise the epitrochoid curves and improved a virtual Epitrochoid Tracker with the Desmos graphing calculator to check the parametric equations for the drawn curve. The paper focuses on the two pillars of the developed STEAM-based learning method and their pedagogical aspects.