Integración de inteligencia artificial, pensamiento computacional y robótica en educación primaria: Estudio de caso en Puerto del Rosario

In today’s primary education landscape, integrating digital technologies, active methodologies, and artificial intelligence (AI) presents both challenges and opportunities for developing essential 21st-century skills. This study explores the difficulties students face in acquiring digital competencies and engaging with active approaches such as Problem-Based Learning (PBL), which can hinder academic performance and highlight the need for meaningful, interdisciplinary, and context-driven learning strategies. The main objective is to design an innovative STEAM project that incorporates computational thinking and AI to strengthen problem-solving abilities in primary education. Using educational action research, the project was implemented with 27 students aged 10–11, focusing on the collaborative design of a sustainable city. This approach promoted logical-mathematical learning through digital activities and diverse group work, fostering inclusion, creativity, and skill development. Findings indicate that combining PBL with programming, robotics, and AI enhances critical thinking, autonomy, and STEAM-related competencies. However, successful implementation requires specialized teacher training and must address the ongoing challenge of the digital divide in vulnerable contexts. The use of SWOT and CAME frameworks proved essential in translating reflective analysis into strategic action. This experience contributes to educational research by offering a replicable model for strengthening key competencies in similar school settings.