Chosun University’s AI/SW Education Center is collaborating with the Jeonnam Education Office Student Education and Culture Center to launch an innovative program aimed at local elementary and middle school students in Yeosu. The program, titled 'Coding with Books! (Lego + Robot)', was announced on March 26, 2025, and is designed to foster creative problem-solving skills and computational thinking through hands-on learning experiences.
Set to run throughout the 2025 academic year, this initiative will be divided into spring and fall semesters, providing a comprehensive year-long curriculum. Professor Cho Young-joo from the Chosun University AI/SW Education Center, along with student instructors Cho Yoon-sung and Shin Soo-bin from the Department of Computer Engineering at the IT Convergence College, will lead the program, ensuring systematic and effective AI/SW education.
The curriculum is thoughtfully structured to include key topics such as understanding the Fourth Industrial Revolution and its relationship with AI/SW, coding practices using Lego and robots, and creative problem-solving projects that are linked to the local community. This multifaceted approach aims to equip students with the skills necessary for success in an increasingly digital world.
One of the program's standout features is its emphasis on experiential learning. Students will have the opportunity to build and program their own robots, thereby gaining a practical understanding of AI and software principles. This hands-on approach is expected to make learning both engaging and effective, as students can see the real-world applications of their coding efforts.
As part of the program, students will participate in a project titled 'My Hometown Yeosu, Treasure Map Revealed by Robots'. In this project, they will use their robots to explore and introduce famous landmarks in Yeosu, blending educational content with local culture. This initiative is not only about technology; it also aims to deepen students' connections with their community.
Professor Cho Young-joo expressed optimism about the program's potential impact, stating, "This AI/SW education camp will provide an opportunity for students to develop core competencies in the digital age and foster interest in AI/SW. I hope that participating students will become AI/SW talents who have a positive influence on our society." His vision reflects a broader commitment to nurturing the next generation of innovators.
Feedback from students who participated in the program has been overwhelmingly positive. Many have shared their excitement about the learning process. One student remarked, "The process of finding treasures by coding the robot to follow the Yeosu treasure map was fascinating and fun!" Another added, "I look forward to building and coding robots with my teachers every Tuesday!" Such enthusiasm highlights the program's success in engaging young minds and sparking interest in technology.
Chosun University plans to continue expanding its creative AI/SW education programs in collaboration with the local community. By doing so, they aim to contribute to the development of future digital talents who are well-prepared to navigate and shape the evolving technological landscape.
In conclusion, the 'Coding with Books! (Lego + Robot)' program represents a significant step towards integrating technology education in a way that is accessible and enjoyable for young students. Through collaboration with educational institutions and a focus on local culture, Chosun University is setting a precedent for innovative educational practices.
