The state of technology development is growing sharply in various areas, suggesting that students ought to learn new skills at a young age. Understanding this need, Robotics Bootcamp at Oxford High has introduced the concept of Tech Summer School, which includes Robotics Bootcamp for our students. This program aims to provide students with basic robotics, programming, and problem-solving skills, and Dr. Kibet and Dr. Otieno will facilitate it.
Robotics is a broad area of study that interlinks with other professions, including engineering, computer science, and technology. This fluid is widely used across several industries, ranging from manufacturing to medical fields. STEM education, or in this case, learning robotics, not only teaches a set of skills in the technical aspects but also in the cognitive aspects, such as critical thinking, creative, and interpersonal skills that are commonly associated with teamwork. Hoping like other programs developed at Robotics Bootcamp at Oxford High, the Robotics Bootcamp will build such skills among students to create a plausible future vision of opting for STEM careers.
Robotics Bootcamp at Oxford High refers to an enabling program in which students from grades 7 to 12 are taken through. They include over four weeks of teaching, where classes are conducted from Monday to Friday. The subject matter is extensive, and it extensively taught concepts such as basic electronics, programming and automation, and mechanical designing, among others. The processes are more or less weekly; however, each week has a specific focus that corresponds to the previous weeks’ knowledge and skills.
Week 1: The subjects in this category are Introduction to Robotics and Basic Electronics.
The first week familiarises the students with the concepts and practicalities of robotics and elements of electronics. They get to discover the history and applications of robotics as well as other rudimentary aspects of the field. Topics covered include:
History and Evolution of Robotics: Identifying the historical growth of robotics and its applicability to different industries.
Basic Electronics: Being aware of basic electrical elements, including resistors, capacitors, and transistors, and their application in circuits.
Safety Protocols: The rule here is to ensure that the students are aware of safety issues concerning electronic parts and equipment.
Painter and others describe how students do things themselves and ensure that they learn how various parts of the circuits interact. These serve as the most fundamental skills that are important for the other exercises they are likely to perform in the subsequent weeks.
Week 2: Programming principles and microcontrollers
In the second week, programming and microcontrollers used in controlling robots are of interest.
Key topics include:
Introduction to Programming Languages: Learning algorithms of languages commonly used in robotics, including Python and C++.
Microcontrollers: You will now be familiar with microcontrollers and how these devices work in the context of robots.
Basic Coding: Documentation of basic code for control of LEDs, motors, and sensors.
First, students get acquainted with Arduino, a widely used microcontroller platform.
Arduino, an open-source microcontroller platform, is also new to the students. They learn how to use the software to create code for Arduino boards and control different elements. In a hands-on way, students are able to learn about programming and its use in robotics.
Week 3: Mechanical Design for Automation of Buildings Automation Robots
The third-week deals with mechanical design and the physical structure and building of robots. Students learn about:
Mechanical Components: The concept of gears, motors, and sensors to know how they operate in the systems used with robots.
3D Modeling and Printing: Designing parts using computer programs and then utilizing 3D printers for physical fabrication.
Building Robots: Morphing robots constructed from packs and individual elements.Finally, the students are grouped in teams so that they synthesize all that they have learned in the previous weeks to build their robots. This fortifies their problem-solving and teamwork skills, which are important in the study and practice of robotics.
Week 4: The technical challenges and solutions of automation and advanced projects
Finally, in the last week, students were introduced to more advanced topics in automation and complex robotics. They learn about:
Sensors and Actuators: They install the sensors and the actuators into their robots for self-operation capabilities.
Advanced Programming: Developing algorithms for controlling the movements of the robots and automating their answers.
Project Development: Create an end-of-boot camp project that encapsulates all that was learned in the camp.
At the end of the week, students demo their projects and explain how functional their robots are. This not only helps to build confidence but also enables them to get feedback from their peers and instructors.
Organization trainers conducting Robotics Bootcamp at Oxford High have engineering and computer science expertise. These experts help the students in the learning process by tutoring them and giving them valuable recommendations. Industry experts who visit our classrooms offer their experience, which provides students with an insight into the real-world practice of robotics.
The Robotics Bootcamp offers numerous benefits to students: The Robotics Bootcamp provides innumerable benefits to students:
Skill Development: Mechanical engineering concepts, electronics, programming, and other such skills are learned during studies.
Critical Thinking: The practical practice promotes critical thinking and intellectual approach among the students.
Teamwork: Group lessons also encompass interpersonal skills and teamwork among learners.
Career Preparation: Students’ activities related to robotics and STEM disciplines promote future academic and career encounters.
Several students who participated in previous iterations of the Robotics Bootcamp have shared their positive experiences: Several students who participated in earlier iterations of the Robotics Bootcamp have shared their positive experiences:
Sarah, Grade 10: The boot camp was a fantastic experience. It taught me many new things about coding and how to build new robots. Though the boot camp was challenging, the trainers were so considerate of us.
Michael, Grade 8: “I enjoyed the fact that assembling a robot with my team was a result of a team effort, and it was fun to see our ideas materialize.
This bootcamp was a start in encouraging me to venture into engineering. ”
This Robotics Bootcamp at Oxford High certainly is an excellent experience by which students will be able to get a remote glimpse of the world of robotics. Through an organized and systematic program, the boot camp empowers students with the knowledge and skills needed for various STEM-related careers. Expert guidance, practical work, and group interaction help the student develop as a person and as a learner in the community with interest. In the future, the development of technology will remain the same. Therefore, opportunities such as the Robotics Bootcamp are vital in building the future generation of thinkers and producers.
At the Robotics Bootcamp, you will learn about robotics and AI concepts such as physical computing, self-driving cars, line-following robots, AI delivery robots, and gesture-based robots. The bootcamp aims to develop your knowledge and understanding of automation and robotic systems, with a focus on local applications.
The Robotics Bootcamp is designed for school educators and students, providing them with hands-on experience in robotics and AI concepts. It is an immersive learning experience that empowers educators to upgrade their knowledge and skills in these areas, enhancing their teaching methods and classroom engagement.
The Robotics Bootcamp is held on various dates depending on the specific program. For example, Data Science Malta's Robotics Bootcamp starts on December 6th, 2023, while the Robocon Bootcamp is scheduled for December 16-17, 2023.
The Robotics Bootcamp is held at various locations depending on the specific program. For example, the Data Science Malta Robotics Bootcamp takes place at an undisclosed location, while the Robocon Bootcamp is held at IIT Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi - 110016.
No, prior experience in robotics is not necessary to join a robotics bootcamp or start a career in robotics. You can build a strong foundation in robotics fundamentals, programming skills, and practical experience through formal education, online courses, and personal projects.