Initial Experiments using Game-based Learning Applied in a Classical Knowledge Robotics in In-Person and Distance Learning Classroom

Abstract

It aims at assisting learning of classical and initial robotics concepts. This proposal, similar to the classic 80s war tanks game on Atari 2600, was developed using an autonomous vehicle. In the first experiment, applied to the class 2019/2, the students (players) had to battle against another autonomous tank developed (in two different ways, in Person and Distance Learning), using keyboard inputs to control their tank. In this game, the students were asked to create states machine models while were being introduced to fundamental concepts such as pose, other basic notions concerning controlled and autonomous robots, and the hierarchy of actions. At the end of the games, a questionnaire answered by the students extracted valuable findings of the examined concepts. In 2021/1 class, the second and third experiments were applied. The former was an extension of the first experiment, using autonomous parking cars. The latter was inspired by the classic Pong game, with the addition of more degrees of freedom (DOF). In this case, the player attempts to reach and catch a ball through the operation of a robotic arm with two rotating joints, using keyboard inputs. Each block or scenario will become more complex, and the student has time to perform a task. In the case of the third experiment, the concepts including 2-D workspace, multiple solutions, inverse, and direct kinematics were explored. Delivery rates for the first and second experiments were 90% and 80%, respectively. Even though three individual experiments were investigated, the single objective was achieved: the implementation of modern didactic tools to deliver critical pedagogical concepts to students in the robotics class.