Planly : Teaching AI planning through block-based programming and robotics

Tools

Clift, Lee and Anderson, Damien and Weir, Catriona and Rodgers, Phil and El Gemayel, Joseph; (2026) Planly : Teaching AI planning through block-based programming and robotics. In: HCAIep '26. Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), IRL, p. 124. ISBN 9798400721533 (https://doi.org/10.1145/3777490.3777516)

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Abstract

We present Planly, a tool that teaches AI planning concepts through block-based programming and physical robotics. Using a Scratch-like interface, students construct PDDL planning problems with visual blocks, defining objects, states, goals, and actions. The system validates code, solves problems, and executes solutions through both a provided digital simulation and via a physical Arduino-powered kinematic arm. This approach makes abstract AI planning accessible and engaging for compulsory education, primarily aimed at the upper primary age group of 8-11 year olds.

ORCID iDs

Clift, Lee ORCID logoORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8313-9934, Anderson, Damien ORCID logoORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8554-3068, Weir, Catriona, Rodgers, Phil ORCID logoORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5570-7490 and El Gemayel, Joseph ORCID logoORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0004-4518-3071;
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