This module aims to familiarize Year 1 students with the core aspects of the intelligent robotics industry, including components, mechatronics, machine intelligence, digital sub-systems, and typical implementation scenarios. It introduces fundamental concepts and applications of intelligent robotics while developing students’ engineering-related problem solving, basic system design, safe practical operation, teamwork, and oral communication skills. As part of the Semester 1 Academic Horizons block and with co-delivery by LIFE, the module also supports students’ transition into English-medium university learning by encouraging independent inquiry, evidence-based exploration, critical thinking, collaboration, feedback use, and reflection through research-led and project-based learning.
A. Identify and describe the main components of intelligent robotics systems, including mechatronics, machine intelligence, digital sub-systems, and their implementation in industry scenarios. B. Demonstrate understanding of fundamental intelligent robotics concepts and applications by analyzing case studies, constructing basic models, and explaining the interactions among key technological components. C. Apply engineering principles to solve defined robotics problems and design, construct, test, and evaluate basic robotic systems that meet specified requirements, while following appropriate safety protocols. D. Apply research-led learning approaches through independent inquiry, evidence-based exploration, and critical thinking when investigating robotics-related topics and problems. E. Engage in project-based and collaborative learning practices, including problem framing, planning, teamwork, feedback use, communication, and reflection.
This module will be delivered through a combination of School-led lectures and labs, together with weekly LIFE/ALC-supported studio/tutorial seminars. Lectures: Lectures will cover the history and development of mechatronics and intelligent robotics, machine intelligence, and the key components of intelligent robotics, as well as related applications. Additionally, they will provide knowledge on the basic working principles of robotics-related subsystems, especially digital systems, and include detailed knowledge such as system design and fundamental programming skills based on industrial products. Industry professionals will also be introduced to bring real-world insights into the application of these technologies. Labs: Labs will offer practice-based learning focused on digital systems and their application in industrial products. A comprehensive project will be provided where students are expected to design, construct, test, and evaluate the system safely, fostering a hands-on understanding of the concepts discussed in lectures. Tutorials: These activity-based sessions will run across the semester alongside the School-led teaching. Students will work in project groups through the RLPBL process of Sense, Frame, Investigate, Create, Refine, and Reflection/Showcase. Weekly activities will support project development through problem framing, evidence gathering, planning, prototyping, feedback use, reflection, and the production of relevant project artifacts. School staff or representatives will provide disciplinary input at key stages.