Begin Robotics (FutureLearn)

But what are the different forms of robots today? And how do they achieve particular tasks? In this introduction to robotics course, you’ll explore these answers and more.

Discover the history of robots and their modern application
You’ll kick things off by taking a look at the basics of robotics. By exploring the history of robots, you’ll learn about some of the uses of these fascinating machines.
Next, you’ll explore some of the modern applications of robotics and our relationship with them, helping you gain context for what’s to follow.

Learn about the basics of robot design
On this robotics for beginners course, you’ll discover some of the fundamentals of how robots are made. As well as looking at some of the key components of robot design, you’ll also examine how they operate.

Examine robot anatomy, control and behaviour through a set of simulated tasks
If you’d like to find out more, but don’t have Hawking’s brain or an advanced qualification in cybernetics, this course is for you. You won’t require a soldering iron, but you’ll explore the basics of robot design, control and behaviour through a series of simulations that will have you test driving an ERIC – our very own University of Reading mobile robot.

Syllabus

Week 1: Introduction to Robotics
Week 2: Robot anatomy
Week 3: Cybernetics and control
Week 4: Robot behaviours

What will you achieve?

• Describe different forms of robot and applications where they may be used
• Determine the appropriate commands to allow a robot to achieve particular tasks using information from sensors
• Appreciate how aspects of robotics can be applied in many different scenarios