The Future of Computing: Robotics and Artificial Intelligence

Subject: Information Technology
Class: SS1
Term: First Term
Week: 9
Age: 14-16 years
Topic: The Future of Computing
Sub-topic: Robotics and Artificial Intelligence
Duration: 80 minutes

Behavioral Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

1. Explain the term computing.
2. Identify and describe various computing activities.
3. Evaluate the future of computing with a focus on robotics and artificial intelligence (AI).

Keywords

• Computing
• Robotics
• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Automation
• Machine Learning
• AI applications

Set Induction

Start the lesson by showing videos or images of robots performing tasks such as assembling products, playing chess, or even helping in healthcare. Ask students: “What do you think the role of robots and AI will be in the future?” This will prompt them to think about the rapid developments in computing and how it affects various industries.

Entry Behavior

Students may have heard of or used AI technologies like virtual assistants (e.g., Siri or Alexa) and are likely familiar with the idea of robots in industries. The lesson will expand on these concepts to explore their future impact.

Learning Resources and Materials

1. Projector for showing videos of robots and AI applications.
2. Computers or mobile devices to demonstrate AI-powered tools and applications.
3. Online resources and articles about AI and robotics.

Building Background/Connection to Prior Knowledge

Students have likely encountered AI-based applications in their daily lives, such as smartphones, voice assistants, and social media recommendations. The lesson will build on these concepts, emphasizing how these technologies are evolving and their potential in the future.

Embedded Core Skills

• Digital Literacy: Understanding robotics and AI as essential components of modern computing.
• Critical Thinking: Evaluating the impact of these technologies on society.
• Creativity: Imagining the potential applications of robotics and AI in the future.

Learning Materials

• Lagos State Scheme of Work
• SS1 Information Technology textbooks
• Videos on robotics and AI applications

Reference Books

• Lagos State Unified Schemes of Work for Senior Secondary Schools
• SS1 Information Technology textbooks
• Online articles on AI and robotics from reputable sources (e.g., TechCrunch, MIT Technology Review).

Instructional Materials

• Videos showcasing robotic tasks and AI functionalities.
• Slides or diagrams showing various AI-powered tools (e.g., self-driving cars, chatbots).

Content Outline

1. What is Computing?
   • Computing refers to the use of computers to perform tasks such as processing data, running software, or automating operations. It encompasses a wide range of activities, from basic calculations to advanced artificial intelligence and robotics.
   • Examples: Using a computer to type a document, running an AI program for facial recognition, or controlling robots in manufacturing.
2. Computing Activities
   • Data Processing: Gathering, organizing, and analyzing data.
   • Automation: Using computers and software to perform tasks without human intervention. Examples include automated factories and self-checkout systems.
   • Artificial Intelligence (AI): Developing systems that can mimic human intelligence, such as speech recognition, machine learning, and problem-solving algorithms.
   • Robotics: The design, construction, and operation of robots that can perform tasks traditionally done by humans. Robots are used in manufacturing, healthcare, space exploration, and more.
3. The Role of Robotics and Artificial Intelligence in the Future of Computing
   • Robotics:
     • Robots will become increasingly autonomous, capable of performing more complex tasks. For example, robots in hospitals could assist with surgeries, and drones could be used to deliver packages.
     • The integration of AI in robotics will allow robots to learn from their environment and improve their performance over time.
     • Example: The Boston Dynamics robot that can walk, jump, and even perform backflips.
   • Artificial Intelligence (AI):
     • AI is already impacting various sectors like healthcare, finance, transportation, and education. In the future, AI will play a significant role in personalized medicine, automated driving, and AI-powered customer service.
     • AI will continue to evolve, enabling systems to handle more complex decision-making processes and to become better at predicting future trends.
     • Example: AI in self-driving cars, like those developed by Tesla and Waymo.
4. What the Future Holds for Computing
   • Smart Cities: AI and robotics will drive the development of smart cities, where systems will automatically regulate energy usage, transportation, and waste management.
   • Healthcare: AI will assist doctors by analyzing medical data, predicting diseases, and even performing surgeries.
   • Automation of Jobs: Many traditional jobs may be automated by robots and AI, leading to a shift in the workforce. This could create new opportunities in fields like AI programming, robotics maintenance, and data science.
   • Ethical Implications: As AI and robots become more advanced, ethical concerns such as privacy, security, and the impact on jobs will need to be addressed.
   • Example: AI-powered robots like Sophia, an AI humanoid robot that can engage in conversations and interact with people, raising questions about the future of human-robot relationships.

Objective Questions

1. What does computing refer to?
   a) Using software to perform tasks b) Interacting with robots c) Using computers to perform various tasks d) All of the above
2. Which of the following is an example of automation?
   a) Manual calculation b) Self-driving car c) Typing a document d) Reading a book
3. What does AI stand for?
   a) Artificial Intelligence b) Automated Internet c) Automated Information d) Artificial Internet
4. Which of the following is an example of robotics?
   a) A drone delivering packages b) A computer performing calculations c) A smart assistant answering questions d) A computer running a game
5. In the future, AI will most likely _______.
   a) Replace all humans b) Assist in decision-making processes c) Only be used in entertainment d) Not evolve at all
6. What is one major function of AI in the healthcare sector?
   a) Analyzing medical data b) Cleaning hospital floors c) Delivering medication d) Giving patients their prescriptions
7. Which of the following is NOT an activity of computing?
   a) Data processing b) Automation c) Artificial Intelligence d) All of the above
8. Which of these tasks will robots likely take over in the future?
   a) Assembly line work b) Driving cars c) Healthcare services d) All of the above
9. Which industry is most likely to be affected by AI in the future?
   a) Healthcare b) Retail c) Transportation d) All of the above
10. Which of these is an ethical concern regarding AI and robotics?
    a) Data privacy b) Job displacement c) Security d) All of the above

Class Activity Discussion

1. What is computing, and how has it evolved?
2. Can you identify some current uses of robotics and AI in different industries?
3. How do you think robots and AI will change the job market in the next 20 years?
4. What are the potential benefits of AI in healthcare?
5. What challenges do you think the world might face with the rise of robotics and AI?
6. What is the significance of automation in industries such as manufacturing and agriculture?
7. Do you think robots will be able to perform complex tasks like human workers? Why or why not?
8. How do you think AI will impact education in the future?
9. What do you think will be the most important technological advancement in AI over the next decade?
10. In your opinion, what should be the ethical guidelines for the development and use of AI and robotics?

Evaluation Questions

1. Define computing.
2. What are the key activities involved in computing?
3. What is robotics, and how is it different from AI?
4. How can AI improve healthcare systems in the future?
5. Which of the following is an example of an AI application?
   a) Virtual Assistant b) Email c) Typing a document d) Video gaming
6. In what ways could robotics be used in agriculture?
7. How will self-driving cars affect the transportation industry?
8. Explain one ethical issue related to the development of AI.
9. Name one example of a robotic technology that is used in industry today.
10. What do you think the future holds for AI-powered education tools?

Conclusion

• Review the key concepts of computing, robotics, and artificial intelligence, and how they are shaping the future of various industries.
• Discuss the ethical considerations in the development of AI and robotics and their potential societal impacts.

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