Empowering Innovation and Inspiring STEM Careers: Teaching Robotics in underserved communities

Background of the Project:

#CHIETARoboticsClub is facilitated by #AlgoAtWorkRoboticsAcademy to empower the next generation of robotics experts and promoting technological advancement in African communities.?Through its Discretionary grant, CHIETA - The Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority , together with AlgoAtWork , Arm(E3)NGAGE and City of uMhlathuze are piloting a school STEM project in uMhlathuze region. The programme aims to create pathways for learners to develop foundational skills in #STEM, by introducing the use of #robotics, as well as improve the knowledge and employability of students by introducing them to opportunities to engage with #industry.

Robotics sessions have become a very interesting session in the hearts of 50 junior engineers from Amangwe, Ziphozonke, and Dover High Schools, and now robotics has begun to appear as a popular field of study in their career choices, and with good reason. This is an exciting and dynamic field that blends computer science, mechanical engineering, and electronics to create intelligent systems (from prototyping to commercial markets) that can interact to solve problems in communities and industry. Teaching the basics of robotics in high school is an excellent way to introduce students to this field and inspire them to pursue careers in STEM.?

The junior engineers are excited to be participating in this program and can’t wait to start building their prototypes. Most of them come from under-resourced families and are excited to be part of this program. They hope that the platform will enable them to level up their knowledge and teach them to bring their innovative ideas to the table and make them a reality.?

Overcoming the Hurdles of Implementing a Robotics Program at Amangwe High School

At Amangwe High School, we face numerous obstacles in our quest to introduce a comprehensive robotics program for the beneficiaries of the program.

1. The primary concern is the potential theft of computer and electronic equipment from the surrounding community. Our devoted robotics facilitator, Ngcebo Mdletshe, recalls the students' concern: "Coach, you've got to be careful because we don't trust our brothers in the community; once they hear there are computers, they will come and break in to take everything." This security risk is the most immediate challenge confronting this robotics program.
2. Another challenge is the affordability of robotics equipment so that a learner can learn at home on their own time. Some parents showed interest in helping their children with equipment so that they could go the extra mile in their spare time to learn more about robotics. Robotic kits and components can be expensive, and many parents may not have the budget to purchase them.?
3. Some parents do not have money to support their children with transport, snacks, food, and any additional costs that can come along the way. ?

Benefits of teaching robotics at Amangwe High School?

Despite the challenges, there are many successes associated with teaching robotics at Amangwe High School. A significant benefit of robotics at Amangwe High School is that our robotics classes inspire students to pursue careers in STEM. Our classes enable children from under-resourced communities to learn very essential skills.??

Robotics is an enthralling field that integrates various disciplines, offering students an insight into the realms of engineering and technology. They are often captivated when they discover that terms from mathematics and physics are employed in robotics sessions, albeit for distinct purposes. One notable success story involves children learning a computational language, specifically Python programming, which sparks engaging questions and discussions.

Python is often used as a starting point for beginners learning to code due to its intuitive syntax and gentle learning curve. Its flexibility makes it suitable for various applications, including web development, data analysis, artificial intelligence, and automation, to name a few.

In the context of robotics, Python is a valuable tool for implementing algorithms, controlling hardware, and processing sensor data. Its compatibility with platforms like the Raspberry Pi and Arduino, along with libraries such as ROSPy (Robot Operating System Python) and Pygame, enables developers to create complex robotic systems with relative ease.

Teaching robotics at Amangwe High School also helps students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Robotics sessions require students to think creatively and develop innovative solutions to complex problems. It also teaches them teamwork and collaboration, as many robotics projects require students to work together in groups.?

Integrating robotics and coding into the academic curriculum at Amangwe High School offers significant advantages by fostering the development of practical skills that students can apply in real-world situations. Engaging in robotics projects will allow students to construct and program intelligent system prototypes to execute particular tasks, thereby honing their abilities in programming, electronics, and mechanical engineering. These skillsets, in turn, contribute to improved performance and higher marks in core subjects such as mathematics and science, as students gain a deeper understanding of fundamental concepts and their real-life applications.?

Introducing the fundamentals of robotics in rural high schools may present challenges, but the rewards are substantial. Despite resource constraints, the AlgoAtWork Robotics Academy can offer students a valuable introduction to the field. Robotics not only encourages students to pursue STEM careers but also cultivates creativity, problem-solving skills, teamwork, social aptitude, and communication. By investing in robotics education within rural high schools, we can contribute to shaping the next generation of innovators and adept problem-solvers.?