Can robots think for themselves?

This is a Computer science Subject Spotlight with Dr Christoph Salge from the University of Hertfordshire. An interactive, cinematic course taster experience to allow students to gain insights into what it's like to study Computer science.

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In this fascinating, robot driven Subject Spotlight, Christoph Salge, Reader in Artificial Intelligence in Games at the University of Hertfordshire, presents: Can robots think for themselves? In the opening episode, he provides an introduction to AI and robotics, gives an overview of Computer Science in the modern world, and discusses robots and autonomous systems. In episode 2, Christoph presents the history of The Braitenberg Vehicle, discusses the mechanism behind it, and considers human/robot interaction, before introducing the Roomba as a case study, describing what it is, why it has been successful, how it works, and its societal impact in episode 3. In the final episode, Christoph delves deep into human-robot relations, asking you to complete a fascinating task to assess your own responses to different robots, and how understanding these reactions will impact the future integration of robots into our everyday routines!

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About University of Hertfordshire

Discover a diverse, campus-based community where your career aspirations become reality. We nurture entrepreneurs and develop tomorrow’s leaders, innovators and trailblazers, and have always specialised in powering every kind of potential. Courses are designed in partnership with employers and our facilities align with the demands of the industries you’ll work in after graduation. You’ll study in a community nestled in green spaces, yet being just 25 minutes north of London, our location opens up opportunities for work placements, learning experiences and social events. Herts. Beats Faster.

Meet the academics

Dr Christoph Salge

Dr Chrisoph Salge is a Reader in Artificial Intelligence in Games at the University of Hertfordshire where he teaches various AI focussed classes as part of the Computer Science Curriculum. Much of Christoph’s research is focussed on games in all forms, and he is curious how artificial intelligence can make, improve or play games. He organises an international competition aimed at making the best AI to automatically build a settlement in Minecraft. He has also worked on several large robotics projects, one on robots that help people to walk again. Christoph is an avid gamer himself, and plays a variety of computer board and roleplaying games - and he is happy that his education allows him to work on a topic he is personally passionate about.

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This subject spotlight is made for students aged 16 and above, that are considering applying to University, particularly to study the subject in the title, or similar areas.

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