Educating Generation Y In Robotics

Abstract

We present our approach to educating the new Generation 'Y' using robotics in undergraduate education. This course is a laboratory based education for life-long learners through a look at a new course for non engineering majors in the senior year. As the centerpiece of this course, we use a robotics platform to integrate introductory programming material with electrical engineering theory. We move away from the traditional note taking and testing model as students start to become life-long learners, creators, and innovators through exposure to small scale engineering problems. The initial assessments of our approach have been very positive. Presenting students with a problem and allowing them to work in interdisciplinary groups to develop solutions using a robotics platform yielded over 70% felt they learned more, were inspired to learn and it fits the students learning style by integrating a robotics platform in their curriculum.