Simulation tools for active learning in robot control and programming

Simulation is a powerful tool in different areas of research, development and education. The simulation has also a very important role in robotics. In this paper, we present an active learning experience in two courses of robotics in the framework of the industrial engineering degree. The benefits of active learning activities have been widely acknowledged and discussed. In this paper we contribute with a new activity designed in this context. The activity is based on two simulation tools developed for these courses: RobotScene and SGRobot. Here, we describe the methodology and the simulation tools used in a project-based learning activity. These activities have been carried out successfully during several years. Our experience is that this is a motivating activity for the students and it improves the understanding of the theoretical concepts involved. Besides, they are essential tools for developing control and programming abilities.