Análise dos benefícios do uso da plataforma Tinkercad para o ensino do pensamento computacional e programação com Arduino no contexto educacional

Abstract

Teaching programming and electronics in an educational context faces challenges related to conceptual abstraction and infrastructure limitations, especially in public educational institutions. In this scenario, virtual simulation platforms emerge as pedagogical alternatives capable of bridging theory and practice in an accessible and safe way. This work aims to analyze, through an integrative literature review, the feasibility of using the Tinkercad platform for prototyping and simulating Arduino circuits in an educational context. This research is characterized as qualitative, a method chosen because it allows for the inclusion and articulation of different types of scientific production, such as empirical studies, experience reports, dissertations, theoretical articles, and institutional documents, enabling a broad and interpretive synthesis regarding the educational use of the Tinkercad platform in conjunction with Arduino. The results of the analysis indicate that Tinkercad presents high pedagogical potential by enabling the simulation of electronic circuits, safe experimentation, and cost reduction, favoring active methodologies, the development of computational thinking, and student engagement. However, the studies also point to limitations related to the simplification of physical phenomena and the lack of direct contact with real hardware, reinforcing the need to integrate the virtual environment with face-to-face practices and qualified teacher mediation. In conclusion, Tinkercad is a viable and relevant complementary pedagogical tool for teaching electronics and programming with Arduino, especially in educational contexts with resource constraints, provided it is used in a planned, intentional way and integrated into the school curriculum.