Erin's Drawing: Daddy

Robotics

What is Robotics?

"Robotics is the engineering science and technology of robots, and their design, manufacture, application, and structural disposition." [wiki-robotics]

Robotics is an emerging multi-disciplinary area in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) that combines mechanical, electrical and computer engineering in the design and construction of robots to perform specific tasks.

Additionally, robotics emphasizes mathematics (for developing algorithms used in programming) and computer science (for programming the circuit boards).

Building robots provides practical hands-on experience and develops crucial skills such as problem solving, communication, critical thinking and teamwork [Mataric et al. 2007]. The inherent design challenges in building robots provide a context whereby the applied science and the knowledge from relevant courses (engineering, computer science, mathematics, etc) is seamlessly integrated to solve the problem at hand while gaining interpersonal and critical thinking skills that can be transferred to professional activities following graduation.

Verner and Ahlgren identified specific mechanisms by which robotics effectively engages students in STEM education. They have shown that students acquire a holistic view of STEM subjects and gain essential knowledge and experience for success in advanced courses which then leads to both improved retention and classroom success.

In addition, students participating in robotics projects are involved in self-directed interdisciplinary learning through research, design, teamwork, and professional communication.

They learn about physical environments that a robot needs to navigate and human factors and also gain valuable experience in solving problems [Mirdamadi et al, 2010].