Teaching Math in Elementary Schools by LabVIEW and Lego Robots

This paper shows a novel platform based on fuzzy logic system for developing a math tutor using LEGO® robots and LabVIEW programs to teach math in elementary schools. The platform is divided into two main parts; the first part is the LEGO® robots, which have preloaded programs for different math topics (exercises), and the second part runs LabVIEW programs for evaluating the progress of each child. The platform is used as a regular play in the classrooms. The robots are personal tutors for each child during the class. After the students finished to review the math topic with the robot, they have to solve a math exam that includes questions about the reviewed topic with LEGO® robot. The main program, which runs the complete math topic in the robot and the exam, was developed in LabVIEW and has an artificial intelligence method for searching the best set of questions and sending feedback regarding the exam results to the child. This platform was validated in two elementary schools located in Xalapa Veracruz, Mexico. The results confirm that the platform helps to increase the kid’s motivation about math and it opens new possibilities for teaching mathematics. Moreover, the kids learn at the same time different topics and skills such as robotics, computer science, mechanical systems, teamwork, and leadership.