Robot Innovation Inspires Students at Edge Hill

Edge Hill University's innovative use of robotics in the teaching of computer programming has recently been recognised, with staff and students invited to take part in a national event.

‘BOTShop', organised by the Higher Education Academy and hosted by the University of Derby, discussed both practical and educational benefits of the use of robotics within teaching.  

"Programming can be a challenging subject for students to learn as there is usually a fear factor attached," explains Senior Lecturer in Computing, Collette Gavan. "Students often see the subject as difficult or mathematical, so we've tried to make it fun as well as challenging to help them engage more fully."  

Dr Mark Anderson, fellow Senior Lecturer in Computing adds, "We've worked to broaden student activities within the programming modules by using robots. This has proven to be highly successful and led us to create an undergraduate Application Development route, specifically exploring programming in an original and captivating environment."  

On receiving the invitation, Collette and Mark asked a number of students to accompany them to the event so they too could showcase their knowledge and talents. "Rather than just presenting ideas we thought our participation would be far more effective if a party of students, from across the year groups, accompanied us to demonstrate the work they had successfully completed," says Collette. "This also gave our students the opportunity to describe in person how they had benefitted from their learning experiences."  

First year student, Aaron Mulholland, who was chosen to attend the event comments, "Taking part in an academic event such as this, and having the chance to offer my opinions about how well our course works, has been a fantastic opportunity for me."  

Aaron believes he is truly benefitting from Edge Hill's approach. "A lot of what we do, especially in programming, requires a practical hands-on approach which, in my experience, enables you to come up with solutions to the most difficult challenges. I find this process definitely works as you get to work on a project while you learn."  

This is a belief Mark also agrees with and feels that all six students who took part in the event gained a great deal from the experience. "The students definitely came away with a sense of pride in their subject, in their course and in Edge Hill University itself. It was great for them to be able to see that the work they are successfully achieving is at the forefront of learning within higher education", says Mark. "The feedback that we received from the audience was extremely positive."  

With the students' assured performance impressing their audience, there has now been interest from other institutions. "A number of participants at the event have since contacted us, expressing interest in working collaboratively on funded projects to further develop the use of robotics in teaching," explains Collette. "We are also investigating the possibilities of running a workshop at Edge Hill in the future and leading a Computing project to enhance our provision in this respect."  

For further information about studying computing at Edge Hill University, visit: http://www.edgehill.ac.uk/business/courses/computing