A computer alone does not a computer school make.
The College of Computer Studies at Foundation University has introduced robotics into its curriculum to give students a venue for their creative juices.
Dae Habalo, CCS dean, said that the robots, supplied by Vex Educational Robotics Design System in the U.S., come in several sizes and may be programmed to be autonomous.
“We aim to engage the student in fun experiences because we want to make learning both fun and challenging at Foundation University,” Habalo said.
She said more and more schools are moving to integrate science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) as a means to meaningfully engage and develop the next generation.
“The study of robotics allows our students to integrate all four STEM subjects, while providing a competitive environment,” she said.
Dumaguetenos have had several occasions of seeing and interacting with these robots these past several months. The demo of robots made its debut during the two-week Foundation Expo last February which was on display at Robinsons Place. Both adults and children had the chance of controlling the robots to accomplish certain goals.
The robots also starred in the 2nd Negros Oriental ICT Expo held at the Negros Oriental Convention Center, where the biggest of the robots–Megathorn–made a dramatic entrance during the opening ceremony.
Megathorn brought in two pairs of scissors which Science & Technology Undersecretary Alejandro Melchor III and the other dignitaries used to cut the ribbon for the ICT exhibits.
Habalo thanked the University administration led by President Mira Sinco and Vice President for Finance & Administration Victor Vicente Sinco for being always on the lookout for cutting edge technology that could enhance the learning experience of their students.
Robotics is here to stay, Habalo said, but she said she still doubts the robots’ capability to replace human teachers in the near future. (Alex Rey Pal)
