In industry, according to a LinkedIn report, robotics engineer is one of the top 3 emerging roles in the UK. In school, robotics is a topic that can be applied throughout the STEM curriculum. For example:
- In D&T, students can explore how robots are manufactured and create their own robots using programme components.
- In maths, students can use calculation to plan out a route for a robot, comparing theoretical calculation to the actual movement of a robot.
- In computing, students can generate and debug robotic programmes, developing their knowledge and application of algorithmic thinking.
- In science, students can find out about new materials used in robotics and the innovative ways that robotic technology is being used in sectors such as healthcare and space.
With such great career prospects for our future robotics engineers, let’s take a look now at how you can highlight robotics careers to your students.
1) Posters!
Why not use these free Careers in Robotics posters? They highlight the skills, opportunities and industries that are linked to this emerging UK sector. You can find more free STEM careers posters here.
2) Competitions!
There are some great competitions out there that link to robotics. Here are some ideas to get your started:
CanSat Ages 14+, Gain practical experience working on a small-scale space project
VEX Robotics Championships Ages 7 to 19+, Robotics-themed STEM challenge
FIRST LEGO League Ages 4 to 16, Robotics-themed STEM challenge
FIRST Tech Challenge Ages 12 to 18, Robotics-themed STEM challenge
There are lots of other STEM competitions that happen throughout the year. You’ll find a larger list in the Teachers Guide to STEM Careers.
3) Employers!
Why not invite an employer who works with robotics to talk virtually or in person to your students? For example, somebody that works in a factory that uses robots in manufacturing or someone that develops code that is used by robots.
Use STEM Ambassadors, to request support from an employer or university volunteer who has experience of robotics. They might even be able to bring in some of their robotics equipment to show the students!
4) and finally...
There’s also a discussion to be had around what future jobs might actually be done by robots. For an idea of how likely that is for particular jobs, take a look at https://willrobotstakemyjob.com/ and find out if we’ll soon have robot lawyers and doctors.
Spoiler alert – teachers are less than 1% likely to be replaced, phew!
If your school would like to try out robotics, there is a 2 day bursary funded training event taking part at the National STEM Learning Centre in York, on the 8th and 9th of July. Free robot included! Find out more here.