EXPLORING ROBOTICS:
The FUTURE is here. The world is becoming technology-driven at a very rapid pace. Machines called robots are no longer just science fiction characters or something seen only in movies. They are becoming an integral part of human life. Terms such as Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning are set to become the norm of the future, driven by an interesting branch of technology that deals with the conceptual design, construction, operation, and application of machines, commonly referred to as robots. In simple words, a machine capable of sensing its environment, carrying out some computing calculations to make decisions, and performing actions in the real world. The term "robot" originates from the Czech word "robota," meaning forced labor.
WHY ROBOTICS???-Life lessons imparted by Robotics:
Several lessons are learnt by students at an early age, such as:
1) Troubleshooting and Critical thinking: It equips students with the most essential attribute in life: questioning, analysing, evaluating, and decision-making. It teaches students to overcome challenges and find innovative solutions to complex problems.
2) Hands-on approach to STEM skills development: Complex theoretical concepts based on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) can become enjoyable and easy to understand through hands-on activities.
3) Thinking out of the box: It inspires students to think differently and stand out from the crowd. It motivates students to devise creative solutions to overcome specific challenges.
4) Teamwork: The most crucial character it builds in students is the ability to work as a team. This helps in better brainstorming and sharing each other's skill sets, as well as accepting different viewpoints.
5) Getting ready for future careers and jobs: Robotics can prepare students for future careers in Engineering, Programming, and other technology-driven fields.
Kick Start with Robotics:
A step-by-step approach can help students become engaged with Robotics and dive into the world. They can gradually rise from the budding stage and become professionals.
1)Books and Videos:
Age 3-5: a) Boy and Bot -By Ame Dyckman https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OpRE9NkwH4o
b) Robots, Robots Everywhere -By Sue Fliess https://youtu.be/wu9AHYjnrsk
c) Robo Sauce -By Adam Rubin https://youtu.be/-8iDk1KEbEQ
Age 6-11: a) STEM Starters For Kids Robotics Activity Book, Packed with activities and Robotic facts. By Jenny Jacoby
b) Making Simple Robots: Exploring Cutting-Edge Robotics with Everyday Stuff by Kathy Ceceri
Age 12 and Above:
a)Robots Kinematics: Robotics for Kids by Dr. S.S.S.R. Anjaneyulu
b) Introduction to Robotics By Oghuvive Blessing Edirin.
2) Join your school Robotics Club or a Community Robotics club.
It helps students to come under the wings of experts. Mentors will expose them to beginner-friendly projects such as
- Line following Robots https://youtu.be/5jh-5HGvC-I
- Robo Race https://youtu.be/s2bIeA-lM8s
- Obstacle avoidance Robots https://youtu.be/1n_KjpMfVT0
- Basic Robotic Arms https://youtu.be/cWuJPlkmxCE
The students will have numerous opportunities to explore various kits available, and will be motivated to participate in competitions.
3) Beginner-Friendly Robotic Kits:
Students should have access to robotic kits that are age and skill-appropriate.
A few kits are mentioned below.
- MBOT- Ages 8 and above - Compatible with Scratch.
- Lego Mindstorms - Middle schoolers
- Arduino Startup Kit- Older children interested in Electronics and Programming.
- Scratch - A visual Programming language for young students
- Python - Beginner-friendly text-based language used in Robotics
- C/C++ - Useful for Arduino for more advanced projects
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