Screams of joy yield creative projects at the educational robotics workshop in Namibia

Abstract

A workshop on educational robotics introduced (mostly) undergraduate students to basic robotics and sensor technology skills. Creative robotics projects were developed using sensor technologies. At the beginning of the workshop, the participants indicated that they were excited about the workshop. This was confirmed by the data analyzed with the Intrinsic Motivation Instrument where most participants mentioned that they enjoyed, learned, and were able come up with creative projects within a limited time of four days. This was the first time for some to practically assemble and code robots and the first time for many to practically work with robotics sensor technologies. The workshop was a very unique workshop to be held in Namibia, the first of its kind where 1) participants developed creative projects which fostered collaboration between a local university and two international universities; 2) doors were opened for local and international collaborators which contributes to educational robotics growth in Namibia and beyond; and 3) business opportunities were created as projects developed have market potential.