LEGO® robotics workshops improve team work and self-confidence of children with disabilities

Fundación Biosbot Robótica, Colombia: Focuses on inclusive education for children with Asperger’s, autism, and bullying victims using LEGO Robotics Kits. Since 2019, assisted over 150 children and 300 families, participating in national and international competitions.

Fundación Biosbot Robótica is a small foundation based in Bogotá, with a focus on promoting inclusion and breaking down barriers for children diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome, autism, and victims of bullying. In 2019 the foundation created Team Biosbot to support children from diverse backgrounds, who come together and use LEGO Robotics Kits to improve building and planning skills, promote teamwork, and enhance self-esteem. Since 2019 more than 150 children and 300 families have worked with Team Biosbot, and many have participated in national and international competitions.

Problems Targeted

Children with special needs and victims of bullying often suffer from low self-confidence and lack knowledge about their true capabilities and potential.

Solution, Innovation and Impact

Fundación Biosbot Robótica is a small, privately funded foundation that aims to promote the social inclusion of children and young people diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome or autism, as well as children who have been victims of bullying. To this end, robotics workshops based on the LEGO® Robotics Kits are organized for children and young people. The workshops are held in low-income regions of Bogotá, mainly in kindergartens, and are aimed at children and young people aged 3 to 18 who have no prior experience with this technology. Robotic teams called Team Biosbot are formed in which children with diverse backgrounds, including neurotypical children and those with special needs, come together to develop skills in robot programming and mechanics, as well as in soft skills such as leadership, teamwork, creative thinking, and project application. The goal is to strengthen social interactions so that all members of the teams improve their self-esteem, raise their tolerance of frustration, and eventually get the opportunity to participate in national and international robotics tournaments. Since 2019 the project has reached more than 150 children and 300 families. Team Biosbot was the national champion of the First LEGO® League in 2018 and 2022; secured the 28th position at the World Robotics Tournament in Houston, Texas, in 2019; and was runner-up in 2013.

Funding, Outlook and Transferability

The project is financed by founding members of Fundación Biosbot Robótica and from the sale of promotional items by Team Biosbot. Despite limited financial resources, it has been possible to replicate the project in various locations and kindergartens in Bogotá. (Awardee 2024)

Pictures

In Colombia, Team Biosbot brings together children from different backgrounds.

In Colombia, Team Biosbot brings together children from different backgrounds.

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