A Tangible Programming System for Early Computational Thinking
Tinkabot is a tangible programming interface that allows children to construct robot behaviours by physically scanning RFID cards. It eliminates screens and text-based syntax, introducing programming concepts through embodied interaction.
Early programming education often depends on screens and abstract interfaces. In resource-constrained environments, this limits accessibility and embodied learning. Tinkabot explores how physical sequencing and sensor-based interaction can introduce computational thinking without keyboards or monitors.
Built on Arduino using an RFID input system, ultrasonic sensing, light detection, sound triggers, and a NeoPixel LED feedback ring. The interpreter parses card sequences into executable actions.
This project was developed as part of my Master of Engineering (M.Eng) thesis in Mechanical Engineering at Adeleke University, Ede, Nigeria.
Thesis Title: "Development of A Screen-Free Robotics Kit for Enhancing Computational Thinking in Early Education in Underserved Communities"
Supervised by Engr. Prof. Olutosin O. Ilori and Engr. Kehinde M. Adeleke.