Teaching fundamentals of robotics to computer scientists

Abstract

This article presents a methodology to reinforce the teaching of fundamentals of robotics to computer scientists. The pedagogical basis is focused on engaging students in an in-depth study of the subject using computing in a substantive way. The approach consists in complementing the lectures by programming assignments focused on giving students a deeper understanding of how robotic systems work from the inside. This article presents the author's experience in the use of this approach, as well as a set of proposed assignment projects. ß

Build‐A‐Robot: Using virtual reality to visualize the Denavit–Hartenberg parameters

“…Robotica for Mathematica and Corke's Robotic Toolbox for MATLAB/Simulink are two prominent examples of software packages with textual interfaces, with each containing a comprehensive set of functions related to forward kinematics and other topics in robotics. Active learning is encouraged by such tools through the process of programming, which has been shown to provide insight into mathematically complex topics, like robot kinematics, when used by students with strong programming skills . For students who are less comfortable with textual programming, RobotiCad and RIO add a graphical user interface (GUI) to the functions in Corke's toolbox to improve accessibility.…”

Programming instruction using a micro robot as a teaching tool

“…Studies suggest that there are many learning tools involving the use of robots in computer instruction; these studies show significant achievements by analyzing questionnaires and follow‐up surveys of students . In addition, it has been found that a goal, such as a prize competition, can effectively motivate students .…”

Design and implementation of intelligent systems with LEGO Mindstorms for undergraduate computer engineers

“…In this way, we may find some guidelines and pedagogical aspects of teaching robotics in Ref. [14]. Example projects and experiences using the LEGO Mindstorms robotic platform to study signal processing with motors and sensors are provided in Refs.…”