- As part of the Robots to Schools program, 30 robots are currently operating in Czech Republic secondary schools and 45 in universities.
- Seven universities and over 60 schools at the secondary level take part in this program in the Czech Republic.
ABB’s Robots to Schools program has achieved a significant milestone with the delivery of the 75th ABB robot to the program. The Robots to Schools program is designed to equip children with the skills needed for the future of work by introducing them to the exciting world of robotics and automation. In this ever-changing landscape, it is crucial to develop new competencies and skills, such as technological proficiency, creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Automation will address a growing range of needs, but the real potential lies in the collaboration between humans and machines. This will drive game-changing innovations across various sectors of the economy – and ABB is preparing the next generation to thrive in this evolving environment.
While colleges and universities use robots, including software and comprehensive robotic workstations, primarily for scientific purposes, secondary school students are supported in their learning by both collaborative robots and robotic industrial arms. Students can use them for school assignments, but also pit their wits against robots in Rubik's cube puzzle solving, keyboard games or use their help when printing various products on a 3D printer.
„The delivery of our 75th robot proves that schools and universities have been increasingly taking an interest in supporting robotic education, using not only our experts but also our leading technology,” said Vítězslav Lukáš, Board Member of ABB in the Czech Republic and Manager, Robotics & Discrete Automation Business Area. “Together with teachers we help to prepare students for careers in robotics and automation. Moreover, we have seen that robots can increase students' desire to learn new things and develop unique skills. They are an essential part of the curriculum, helping to equip the next generation with skills to thrive in a new era of automation."
The benefits of robots´ integration into education have been demonstrated in a number of scientific studies. An analysis evaluating 17 scientific papers on the effects on learning outcomes published last year by the scientific journal Sustainability found an overall positive effect on pupils and students. Robots have the greatest benefit in engaging and motivating students, followed by skills development. Interestingly, the impact of robots on learning decreases with age, stressing the importance of robotics education at a primary school level, all the way through to secondary and university students.*
ABB provides a range of its robots, from YuMi and GoFa collaborative robots to various industrial robots and IRB-type robotic arms for the Robots to Schools program. The cooperation with schools includes more than 50 software multilicences, which provides access to up to 100 users. ABB also provides service support, or delivery of a complete robotic workstation (meaning a robotic cell in case of larger robots) or other accessories such as a conveyor belt, etc. An important part of the cooperation is the training of teachers and the safety certification of the entire workplace.
ABB operates its own robotic production and development center located in Ostrava, Czech Republic and, in addition to the Robots to Schools programme, supports the popularization of technologies through local contests such as „Česká hlava (Czech Head)“. ABB also brings technology closer to young girls by integrating robotics into cultural activities – such as the Prague Spring Festival or Zlín Film Festival.
*Reference source: The Effectiveness of Educational Robots in Improving Learning Outcomes: A Meta-Analysis, Sustainability 2023, 15, 4637. https://doi.org/10.3390/su15054637
ABB Robotics & Discrete Automation as one of the world’s leading robotics and machine automation suppliers, is the only company with a comprehensive and integrated portfolio covering robots, Autonomous Mobile Robots and machine automation solutions, designed and orchestrated by our value-creating software. We help companies of all sizes and sectors - from automotive to electronics and logistics – become more resilient, flexible and efficient. ABB Robotics & Discrete Automation supports customers in the transition towards the connected and collaborative factory of the future. The business area employs approximately 11,000 people at over 100 locations in approximately 53 countries. go.abb/robotics
