NAO, the new humanoid robot classmate
Living and working together with robots is not only a reality in science fiction films and books. In the computer science lessons of the Homburger Gymnasium Nümbrecht this is soon everyday life, because NAO, the humanoid robot, is a new and special classmate. Or is NAO a new teacher?
On Saturday, 30 November 2019, KAMPF Schneid- und Wickeltechnik GmbH & Co. KG handed over a robot type NAO to the Homburger Gymnasium Nümbrecht as part of the „Open Day“ event.
The machine manufacturing company from Wiehl/Mühlen has been a cooperation partner of the grammar school since 2012. The support of the machine manufacturer ranges from numerous offers such as internships, accompanied project tasks, assessment center training and much more to the provision of Lego Mindstorm construction kits. The aim of the company is to arouse young people’s interest in technical professions in a variety of ways. After the successful use of Lego Mindstorm construction kits in class, KAMPF now makes the next step and offers a practical insight into the possibilities of artificial intelligence thanks to the equipment of NAO. Axel Pitsch, head of HR at KAMPF, wants to intensify the cooperation with the school, because: „For us this support is an investment in our future. If boys and girls develop their interest in technology and decide on a MINT career with us, they stay in the Oberberg region or return here after their studies. As a result, we as a company and the entire region benefit from well-trained specialists.“
NAO will presumably be used in the Informatik-AG’s (Arbeitsgemeinschaften). With NAO, robotics – today already an integral part of many production processes – can be taught in a student-friendly way. NAO is a fully programmable robot which, in addition to teaching subjects such as programming, control technology, etc., also promotes creativity and problem-solving skills. The contents of all MINT subjects can be optimally taught in conjunction with the corresponding training materials. With fun and variety, it prepares students for careers in the digital future.
