NXT Workshops: Constructionist Learning Experiences in Rural Areas

This paper will present the educational initiative called NXT Workshops implemented at the International Centre for Advanced Technologies (CITA). Its aim is to promote an attractive and dynamic view of science and technology in rural areas. At pedagogical level, arguments are given to establish the main learning theory upon which these workshops are based, being this theory "constructionism". Equally, their objective is to remark the importance attached to project-based learning in robotics for developing technological fluency. Generally speaking, some progress has been observed with regard to team work, in areas such as taking responsibility and developing creativity and self-esteem, as well as the ability to learn from challenges and to express opinions clearly. These first results of the study allow robotics to be considered a key factor in the development of personal competences in the new century.