"First steps for young programmers" project in Latvia

The project "First steps for young programmers in the digital world", implemented by the Atis Kronvalds Durbe Primary School, is one of the initiatives supported by the Code4Europe project grants in Latvia. The aim of the project is to promote the development of digital skills among pre-school children and younger schoolchildren, stimulating interest in the basics of programming while strengthening logical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Thanks to the funding received, five Bee-Bot robots and two Blue-Bot robots were purchased for the project, as well as the necessary equipment for the activities - a charging station, activity mats, pen holders and other educational materials. The purchased equipment provides an opportunity to use these robots in the long term in both preschool and primary school education.

Professional development training for teachers

In cooperation with the Liepaja Science and Education Innovation Centre (ZIIC), the project organized a masterclass on integrating Bee-Bot robots into the classroom. Led by a ZIIC specialist, the training brought together teachers from the Atis Kronvalds Durbe Primary School and the Durbe Pre-school Education Institution "Ābolītis". Participants explored the theoretical aspects of robotics in education and gained hands-on experience using them in the learning process.

Development of teaching materials

The project developed teaching materials for 12 educational activities involving Bee-Bot robots. These materials are freely available to anyone interested and can be used in both preschool and primary schools.

Study materials and activity descriptions.

Practical classes for children and schoolchildren

Practical classes were organized for grades 1–3 students at the Atis Kronvalds Durbe Primary School and children aged 3 to 7 at the Durbe Preschool Educational Institution “Ābolītis”. Through these hands-on activities, participants were introduced to Bee-Bot robots, discovering the basic principles of programming. They also developed skills in planning action sequences, spatial navigation, problem-solving, and teamwork.

These activities also reinforced knowledge in mathematics, language, and their understanding of the world, making the learning process more exciting and interactive. Ultimately, the classes stimulated the children's interest in technology, programming, and digital skill development.

The project “First steps for young programmers in the digital world” has made a significant contribution to creating a modern, technology-based learning environment. The acquired equipment and developed teaching materials will continue to be actively integrated into preschool and primary education, fostering long-term interest in technology, basic programming, and digital literacy.

The activities of the Code4Europe project are funded by the European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HADEA), Digital Europe Programme (DIGITAL), project No. 101158834 — Code4Europe. In Latvia, the Code4Europe project is implemented by the Latvian Information and Communication Technology Association.

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