Emerging Technologies

Robots are machines with the capacity to sense and act autonomously in their environments. Traditionally, these devices have been found on factory floors; where precision, repetition, and predictability are critical. From robot vacuums to AI-powered voice assistants robots are embedding themselves in everyday life. In doing so, robotics bumps up against the messy, dynamic, and unpredictable environments of the world at large. Students explored everyday lives and practices, considering how robotic technologies (sensors and actuators) could mediate conversations, help us to design in more intuitive ways, enhance connection through sport, give us the right to repair, care for our environment, aid in disaster relief, and free us from notifications.