Treffer: Robotics: A Bridge for Education and Technology.

Robotics (robot usage) is discussed from a historical perspective with regard to its role in employment and education. Part 1 examines the transition from an industrial to an information society and speculates what the future might hold, particularly in terms of employment. Part 2 gives a historical overview of the robotics industry and discusses the industry's impact on work and its anticipated growth, specifically in Michigan, Part 3 investigates the role of robotics in education. Findings from the U.S. Congress Office of Technology Assessment Report are used to look at problems facing American education in its efforts to respond to the information revolution. It is suggested that, to narrow the education-technology gap, schools need to work on student skills which focus on process rather than subject matter content. Process skills noted include critical thinking, problem solving, creativity, application, synthesis, communication, and evaluation and analysis. Various ways to incorporate these essential skills into the classroom are also mentioned. (JM)