Gain an introduction to robotics
Robots today are roving Mars, hoovering our floors, building cars and entertaining us in films. But how do robots achieve particular tasks? And is our relationship with them evolving?
On this four-week course, you’ll gain a solid introduction to robotics to answer these questions and more.
You’ll delve into the different applications of robots, how this leads to more human-robot interaction, and the advantages and disadvantages of this.
Delve into robot anatomy through practical exercises
As you discover the basics of robot anatomy, you’ll explore the key components of robot design, control, and behaviour.
Through a series of practical simulations, you’ll test driving an ERIC – our very own University of Reading mobile robot.
You’ll command ERIC to explore its environment avoiding obstacles, follow a line, and act like a Braitenberg vehicle.
Gain an understanding of cybernetics
Next, you’ll delve into cybernetics and the importance of control in robotics.
You’ll see a demonstration of speed control to understand the feedback and interaction process with robots as you’re introduced to virtual reality, interaction, and haptics.
This exploration will help you to understand how you can command a robot to do specific actions.
Learn robotics with the University of Reading
Finally, you’ll delve into robot behaviour as you discuss whether robots should be able to control their own behaviour.
Learning from the experts at the University of Reading, you’ll gain theoretical knowledge and practical skills as you’re guided through simulations to help you practise what you have learned.
By the end, you’ll have the knowledge and skills to move onto more advanced robotics topics.
The course is designed for anyone interested in robotics - you don’t need to own your own robot to take part. If you’ve always wanted to learn about robotics, robot design, or the history of robots, this is the course for you.
Please be aware that this course contains video clips that include sequences of flickering/flashing lights which might affect learners who are susceptible to photosensitive epilepsy.
