Robots have been a fun topic of interest for kids since the 19th century. In fact, many early science fiction themes were based upon the idea of mechanical humans. Today, robots have come a long way from the clunky, awkward, mechanical prototypes of early science fiction. They now look, act and process information a lot like physical beings. This is why kids still love to experiment with robotics kits.

Early Advancements in Robotics

When robotics kits for kids first came onto the market kids really were limited to what they could do. Basically all they were doing is building a toy that was tethered to a controller. This controller gave the robot a limited number of movements, such as rolling forward, backward, left or right. As remote control technology developed, the tether was no longer necessary and kids could build remote controlled robots. However, their ability to modify these robots was still very much limited.

Sound control was the next advancement to take hold in robotics. Sound sensors could be installed in a robot’s design so that it would respond when a loud sound was sensed. Usually hands clapping was the sound trigger used in this type of robotic project. Once the sound was senses a programmed response was initiated. Usually the motion was simple like moving forward or moving towards the sound.

Modern Advancements in Robotics

Optics is one of the most prevalent areas of interest of modern advancements in robotics. Optical sensors now allow robots to be developed that can sense motion, light level and even low and high spectrum light waves. These advancements have allowed kids to design robots that can see in the dark, that can be controlled by infrared remote control units and that can respond to movement in a field.

The Future of Robotics for Kids

As the sciences continue to mature new developments in robotics are likely to follow. This means that in the future, kids will be able to design and build robotics that have the potential to think, reason and even interact more fluidly with their student creators. Areas of development that are currently showing promise include nanotechnology, hyperconductivity technology and artificial intelligence technology.

In the future, students will be able to select plug and play elements for their robots that allow their creations to see, hear, speak and possibly even to feel. These advancements will allow truly amazing robotic science fair projects to be created in the near future.

One of the most exciting categories for middle school and high school at science fairs is Robots & Robotics Science Fair Projects Programming Artificial Intelligence. Madeline Binder, owner of Super Science Fair Projects, invites you to explore what fun science kits are availabe for home experimentation.