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Dr Rafael Papallas and Click Start

In this course, you will learn about the dynamic world of robotics, which blends engineering, electronics, and computer science to create innovations that enhance our daily lives.

You'll learn to envision a future where humanoid robots assist the elderly, autonomous cars ensure safety and medical robots revolutionise surgical precision.

You'll then discover the array of exciting careers in robotics, from engineering and software development to research and project management, gaining insights into the skills required for success in this rapidly advancing field.

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In this course, you will learn about the dynamic world of robotics, which blends engineering, electronics, and computer science to create innovations that enhance our daily lives.

You'll learn to envision a future where humanoid robots assist the elderly, autonomous cars ensure safety and medical robots revolutionise surgical precision.

You'll then discover the array of exciting careers in robotics, from engineering and software development to research and project management, gaining insights into the skills required for success in this rapidly advancing field.

Click Start, a nationwide training programme designed to help young people develop digital skills, offers this course. Click Start offers scholarships giving free access to young people in the UK. Follow the link in the Click Start icon on the top, to check if you are eligible for free access!

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What's inside

Syllabus

Week 1. Introduction to Robotics
In Week 1 you will be introduced to the subject of robotics! Specifically, Lesson 1 will define what a robot is, look at the 'attributes' of intelligent robots, and review some careers in robotics. Lesson 2 will look at some of the different industries that you might consider working in. The aim of the first week is to familiarise you with robotics and the job opportunities and industries robotics thrive in.
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Week 2. Challenges, opportunities and the skills required to succeed in robotics
In this second week we will discuss the challenges and emerging opportunities of robotics. In particular we will discuss why robotics is hard, why the future is promising, and look at the ethical implications of robotics. Finally, we will host interviews with industry experts from Ocado Technology, the technology company behind the online grocery shop Ocado, and Shadow Robot.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Introduces the fundamentals of robotics, including definitions, attributes, and careers
Examines the challenges and opportunities in the field of robotics and emphasizes ethical implications
Provides insights into different industries where robotics is applied, such as healthcare and transportation
Exposes learners to various career paths within robotics, ranging from engineering to project management
Interviews with industry professionals offer firsthand perspectives on the field
Accessible to young people in the UK through scholarships provided by Click Start

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in How to Get Into Robotics with these activities:
Review of basic math skills
Refresh your basic math skills to strengthen your foundation for understanding robotics concepts.
Show steps
  • Practice solving simple algebraic equations.
  • Review concepts of geometry, such as angles and shapes.
  • Brush up on trigonometry, including sine, cosine, and tangent functions.
Review Math Foundations
Refreshing your math skills can strengthen your problem-solving abilities, which will be valuable throughout this course.
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  • Review high school math topics such as algebra and geometry.
  • Take practice problems online or in a textbook to test your understanding.
  • Consider taking an online refresher course or workshop.
  • Join a study group or find a tutor for extra support.
Discussion forums and online communities
Engage with fellow learners and experts in discussion forums and online communities to exchange ideas, ask questions, and learn from others' experiences in robotics.
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  • Join online robotics communities and forums.
  • Participate in discussions, ask questions, and share your knowledge.
  • Collaborate with others on projects or ideas.
Ten other activities
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Show all 13 activities
Read 'Introduction to Robotics' by John J. Craig
This book provides a comprehensive overview of robotics fundamentals, enhancing your understanding of the course material.
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  • Read through the book's chapters, taking notes on key concepts.
  • Solve the practice problems and review the exercises at the end of each chapter.
  • Discuss the book's content with classmates or a study group.
Coding exercises with Python or C++
Enhance your programming skills by completing coding exercises in Python or C++ to reinforce your understanding of robotics algorithms.
Browse courses on Python Programming
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  • Solve coding challenges on platforms like HackerRank or LeetCode.
  • Implement basic data structures and algorithms in your chosen language.
  • Build simple robotics simulations using code.
Explore Robotics Tutorials
Completing tutorials can provide additional insights and practical guidance to complement the course material.
Browse courses on Online Learning
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  • Identify reputable sources for robotics tutorials.
  • Select tutorials that align with your learning needs and interests.
  • Follow the instructions and complete the exercises in the tutorials.
  • Apply the knowledge gained from the tutorials to your course assignments.
Seek mentorship from experienced robotics professionals
Gain valuable insights and guidance by connecting with experienced robotics professionals who can provide personalized advice and support your learning journey.
Show steps
  • Identify potential mentors through networking events or online platforms.
  • Reach out to individuals and request their mentorship or guidance.
  • Regularly meet with your mentor to discuss your progress and seek advice.
Practice Coding Exercises
Regular coding practice can enhance your problem-solving skills and solidify your understanding of coding concepts.
Show steps
  • Solve coding challenges online platforms like LeetCode or HackerRank.
  • Contribute to open-source projects on platforms like GitHub.
  • Attend coding workshops or bootcamps to gain hands-on experience.
  • Build personal projects to apply your coding skills.
Participate in Discussion Forums
Engaging in discussions with peers can broaden your perspectives and deepen your understanding of course topics.
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  • Actively participate in online discussion forums related to robotics.
  • Share your thoughts, ask questions, and respond to others' posts.
  • Research topics to provide informed contributions to the discussions.
Build a Simple Robot Model
Building a robot model allows you to apply your knowledge of robotics principles and gain practical experience.
Browse courses on Mechanical Engineering
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  • Design your robot's structure and functionality.
  • Gather necessary materials and components.
  • Assemble the robot model, following a logical sequence.
  • Test and debug your robot's performance.
  • Refine your design based on the results of your testing.
Attend Robotics Workshops
Attending workshops offers opportunities to connect with experts, learn specialized techniques, and gain hands-on experience.
Browse courses on Networking
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  • Research and identify robotics workshops relevant to your interests.
  • Register for workshops that align with your learning goals.
  • Actively participate in the workshops, asking questions and engaging with speakers.
  • Follow up with speakers or participants to expand your network and knowledge.
Exploration of ROS (Robot Operating System)
Gain practical experience by following tutorials on ROS, a widely used software platform for robotics, to enhance your understanding of robot control and navigation.
Browse courses on ROS
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  • Install ROS on your computer and set up a development environment.
  • Complete tutorials on ROS basics, such as creating nodes and topics.
  • Build a simple ROS project, such as a robot that moves in a square.
Start a Robotics Project
Embarking on a robotics project allows you to apply your knowledge, develop problem-solving skills, and build a tangible outcome.
Browse courses on Hands-On Learning
Show steps
  • Define the scope and objectives of your project.
  • Research and gather necessary materials and components.
  • Design and build your robotic system.
  • Test and refine your robot's performance.
  • Document your project, including design decisions and results.

Career center

Learners who complete How to Get Into Robotics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Robotics Automation Engineer
Robotics Automation Engineers design, build, and maintain robots that are used in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and transportation. This course provides a solid foundation in the principles of robotics and automation. You will learn about the different types of robots, how they are controlled, and how they can be used to solve real-world problems. This knowledge will be essential for your success as a Robotics Automation Engineer.
Robotics Control Engineer
Robotics Control Engineers focus on creating and implementing control algorithms used in various robotics applications. Engineers specialize in the design, analysis, and maintenance of control systems, from simple feedback loops to complex multivariable systems. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of robotics, control systems, and automation. You will learn about the different types of control algorithms, how they are implemented, and how they can be used to control robots. This knowledge will be essential for your success as a Robotics Control Engineer.
Robotics Hardware Engineer
Robotics Hardware Engineers design, build, and test the physical components of robots. They work with a variety of materials, including mechanics, sensors, and actuators. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Robotics Hardware Engineer. You will learn about the different types of hardware used in robotics, how they are designed, and how they are built. You will also learn about the different hardware tools and techniques used in robotics.
Robotics Software Engineer
Robotics Software Engineers use their knowledge of computer science, engineering, and robotics to design, develop, and test software for robots. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Robotics Software Engineer. You will learn about the different types of software used in robotics, how they are developed, and how they are tested. You will also learn about the different software tools and techniques used in robotics.
Robotics Sales Engineer
Robotics Sales Engineers sell and support robotics products and services. They work with customers to identify their needs and develop solutions that meet those needs. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Robotics Sales Engineer. You will learn about the different types of robotics products and services, how to sell them, and how to support them.
Robotics Applications Engineer
Robotics Applications Engineers help customers implement and use robotics solutions. They work with customers to understand their needs, develop solutions, and train them on how to use robotics. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Robotics Applications Engineer. You will learn about the different types of robotics applications, how to develop them, and how to train customers on how to use them.
Robotics Project Manager
Robotics Project Managers are responsible for planning, organizing, and managing robotics projects. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including engineers, scientists, and customers. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Robotics Project Manager. You will learn about the different phases of a robotics project, how to manage a project team, and how to track project progress.
Robotics Technician
Robotics Technicians maintain and repair robots. They work with a variety of robots, including industrial robots, medical robots, and military robots. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Robotics Technician. You will learn about the different types of robots, how they work, and how to maintain and repair them.
Robotics Research Scientist
Robotics Research Scientists conduct research and development in the field of robotics. They work on a variety of projects, including developing new robotic technologies, improving existing robotic technologies, and finding new applications for robots. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Robotics Research Scientist. You will learn about the different types of research conducted in robotics, how research is conducted, and how research findings are disseminated.
Robotics Educator
Robotics Educators teach robotics to students of all ages. They work in a variety of settings, including schools, colleges and universities, and community centers. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be a successful Robotics Educator. You will learn about the different types of robotics education, how to teach robotics, and how to develop robotics curriculum.
Industrial Automation Technician
Industrial Automation Technicians install, maintain, and repair industrial automation systems. These systems are used to automate a variety of tasks in manufacturing and other industries. This course provides a good foundation for Industrial Automation Technicians, but may require additional training or experience in industrial automation systems.
Mechatronics Engineer
Mechatronics Engineers combine the principles of mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science to design and build products and systems. They work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and transportation. This course may be useful for Mechatronics Engineers who want to learn more about robotics.
Computer Engineer
Computer Engineers design, develop, and test computer systems. They work in a variety of industries, including software development, hardware manufacturing, and networking. This course may be useful for Computer Engineers who want to learn more about robotics.
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineers design, develop, and test electrical equipment. They work in a variety of industries, including power generation, distribution, and utilization. This course may be useful for Electrical Engineers who want to learn more about robotics.
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineers design, develop, and build mechanical systems. They work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, transportation, and energy. This course may be useful for Mechanical Engineers who want to learn more about robotics.

Reading list

We've selected ten books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in How to Get Into Robotics.
This textbook covers the use of deep learning in robotics, which is essential for robots that must learn from complex data.
This textbook covers the theory and implementation of probabilistic robotics, which is essential for robots that must operate in uncertain environments.
This textbook covers the use of computer vision in robotics, which is essential for robots that must perceive their environment.
This textbook covers the algorithms used for robot motion planning, which is essential for robots that must navigate complex environments.
Provides a more critical look at the potential impact of robotics on the future of work, arguing that we need to be prepared for the possibility of mass unemployment.
Provides a concise overview of the field of robotics, perfect for those who want to learn more about the basics.
This classic science fiction novel explores the ethical implications of robotics and artificial intelligence.
This science fiction novel explores the potential for a robot apocalypse, in which robots turn against their human creators.
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While not specifically about robotics, this classic science fiction novel features a robot named Marvin the Paranoid Android, who provides a humorous and insightful perspective on the relationship between humans and technology.

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