The demand for STEM trained workers continues to increase not only in the United
States, but globally. Reports have indicated that the United States is not doing a good job
encouraging students to pursue STEM oriented degrees. In particular, it has become increasingly
important to emphasize STEM connections at an early level in order to encourage student career
exploration as they continue their education. Educational robots represent a unique alternative to
traditional methods, especially at the elementary level. Considering the use of educational robots
have largely been ignored at this level, the purpose of this study was to describe the interactive
process and outcomes using educational robots to facilitate elementary school students
understanding of STEM concepts. A multi-case approach was used for the design as it is in line
with the underlying conceptual framework for the study. Independent T-tests were utilized to
determine student’s interaction with educational robots, impact of STEM understanding, as well
as their impact regarding the understanding of STEM attitudes. The study was conducted as an
extracurricular program involving fourth grade students at a rural elementary school in Florida.
The sample size consisted of 20 randomly selected participants assigned to either the group
working with robots, or the groups without the robots, for a total of 10 participants in each group.
The associated activity utilized in this study was selected due to the high level of STEM
integration. Data results indicated high levels of interactivity within both groups. The group
working with the robot demonstrated a significant difference in the level of substantive talk.
Considering the understanding of STEM concepts, both groups demonstrated a high level