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Integrating Biology and Computer Science through Embodied Robotics in Elementary Classrooms (Bio+CS) is a collaborative research initiative funded by the National Science Foundation. The project brings together researchers from the University of North Carolina Greensboro, the University of Maryland, and Indiana University to explore innovative approaches to teaching biology and computational thinking in elementary classrooms through embodied robotics. The research team is led by Dr. Hamid Nadir (hmnadir@uncg.edu), Dr. Huaishu Peng (huaishu@umd.edu), and Dr. Kyungbin Kwon (kwonkyu@iu.edu).
Our mission is to transform elementary STEM education by developing interactive, low-cost robotic technologies that help students learn biological concepts while simultaneously building computational thinking skills. Through culturally responsive curriculum design and close partnerships with teachers and schools, we aim to make science and computer science learning more engaging, accessible, and meaningful for diverse learners.
Our Goals
The Bio+CS project seeks to strengthen elementary STEM education through three interconnected goals:
Understanding Classroom Needs
Working closely with elementary teachers and students, we identify current challenges and opportunities in teaching biology and computational thinking. Through co-design workshops and classroom observations, we ensure that new technologies and curricula address authentic classroom needs.
Developing Embodied Robotics for Learning
We are designing and testing low-cost embodied robots that can move on students’ bodies and provide real-time interactive feedback. These robots help students visualize biological systems, such as blood circulation, while introducing foundational computational thinking concepts through programming and problem-solving activities.
Creating an Integrated Bio+CS Curriculum
Our team is developing a culturally responsive curriculum that connects biology learning with computational thinking. Students engage in hands-on design, modeling, programming, and collaborative problem-solving activities that make complex scientific concepts more tangible and accessible.