Subject: Engineering & Technology
Micro-electronic Systems and Control, Robotics, and Mechatronics and are seen as key future growth areas in the general field of Engineering and Technology. These new / emerging ‘world-class’ technologies are vital to the UK economy if it is to maintain its position as one of the world leaders in this area.
The opportunities for young people to study these technologies at Higher Education Level are wide, varied and expanding. Robotics provides a highly motivating context for teaching many subjects, including systems and control (now mandatory in Key Stage 3 Design & Technology). A growing number of schools are now embedding Robotics in their curricula, but often don’t possess the resources or expertise to deliver it effectively.
Thus the University Centre at Yeovil College has developed a ‘Robotics Challenge’ activity using the well-proven Lego ‘Mindstorms’ robot system and providing students with a full-day introduction into building a robot complete with sensors. When constructed, the students are taught how to programme their robot to carry out a number of set tasks typical of those the device is eminently suited to perform.
The Lego ‘NXT Robot’ used, has been developed specifically for learning and provides students with a starting point from which they can explore the creative learning process. The actual tasks the robot is used to solve are important and can often be integrated into other areas of the school curricula (the exploration of environmental and ecological issues being two good examples). The robots themselves conduct these tasks (‘mission’) on a number of ‘simulation mats’ - typically carrying out tasks in a hostile environment – simulation mats of the ‘sea bed’ or a future ‘space colony’ being just two examples. The whole activity is designed to be challenging, competitive and above all enjoyable for the students taking part.
36 Robotics Challenge events were delivered across 2009-2010, typically for group sizes of 40-50 students. The events are in high-demand and highly valued by the schools and clearly enjoyed by the students. One key indicator of the value of this activity is the virtual 50:50 spilt of boys and girls wishing to participate.
This activity is usually delivered to Year 9 students. This new, emerging technology is changing the perception young people have when they think of ‘Engineering’ or ‘Technology’. It is equally suited to both genders and exposure to it has stimulated a good deal of interest amongst many young people experiencing it to continue to choose studies that may lead to a career in this field.
Have a look at the report below for further information:
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HE STEM Programme, University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
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