THE USE OF ROBOTICS AND SIMULATORS IN THE EDUCATION ENVIRONMENT
1. THE USE OF ROBOTICS AND
SIMULATORS IN THE EDUCATION
ENVIRONMENT
Advances in technology continue to push the envelope in healthcare,
travel, communication and education. The use of robotic and simulation
technologies have proven themselves to be worthy components of
available educational resources. These technologies use in the
education environment have shown their value in everyday learning and
in the specialized education of students with disabilities.
ROBOTICS AND SIMULATORS IN
EDUCATION
The use of robotics has allowed complicated medical procedures to be
simplified, the work of dangerous construction projects to be safer and
the discovery of our universe to be possible. When applied to education,
robotics and simulators can change the way students learn and
ultimately create a more knowledgeable and well-adjusted student.
ELEMENTARY AND HIGH SCHOOL EDUCATION
Robotics - Robots can be used to bring students into the classroom
that otherwise might not be able to attend. In New York, a second grader with
severe, life-threatening allergies was unable to attend school due to his
condition. A four-foot-tall robot provided a 'real school' experience for the boy,
'attending' school and bringing the boy with him via an internal video
2. conferencing system. Robots such as the one mentioned are able to 'bring
school' to students who cannot be present physically.
Simulators - High school sees the strongest example of simulators
within drivers' education courses. Simulators provide a true-to-life
experience while removing any real dangers or risk from scenarios. In drivers'
education, students can experience the feeling of being behind the wheel
without ever leaving the safety of the classroom. Simulators offer a chance for
'what if' scenarios, which can better prepare student drivers for real-life
hazards and obstacles on the roadway.
HIGHER EDUCATION
Robotics - Many careers require specialized knowledge in delicate
practices, specifically in the realm of healthcare. When receiving a medical
education, many students find benefits in the use of robotics. When learning to
perform complicated medical procedures, a human subject isn't feasible, so
educators are employing the use of robots as stand-ins. Robots can be created
and programmed to give off all indications of human life, including breath and
heartbeat. Their use can also be seen in such procedures as injections,
surgeries and even delivering children.
Simulators - Simulation technology is utilized in a variety of college
degree focuses, offering 360 degree real-life scenarios and 3D projections of
real experiences. In addition to providing medical students with the means for
thorough exploration of the human body, simulators also provide exceptional
methods of crisis and disaster training for emergency response and law
enforcement trainees. These types of all-encompassing simulators offer a
choice and response technology, requiring officers to make split-second
decisions and immediately see the ramifications of their actions. These types
of scenarios can include violent altercations or behind-the-wheel high-speed
chases.
3. SPECIAL EDUCATION
Robotics - Students with special requirements are reaching new levels
of learning through the use of robotics in the classroom. With these
technologies children with autism are learning communication and social skills
and students with developmental issues and attention disorders are learning
focus. Individuals with severe physical disabilities are also offered a constant
companion and health monitoring system - all through the use of robotics.
Robots can be programmed to suit each individual child's need, offering special
education in a much simpler, accessible format.
Simulators - Simulators are able to offer students with special needs
an introduction to real-world scenarios in a non-threatening
environment. Everyday lessons can be taught at a comfortable pace,
including subjects ranging from basic self-care to stay-safe techniques in
emergency situations. Simulators have also provided a way for special
education educators to see the world from their students' perspectives,
including hearing-impaired or blind simulations.