The week of 13th to 19th November 2023 brings a fascinating look at technology in action and some thought-provoking discussions for primary school assemblies and classrooms. This blog explores the latest development in automation, exciting scientific discoveries, community projects, and environmental restoration efforts, helping pupils connect the news to everyday life and wider global issues. Amazon Trials Human-Like Robot Digit in Warehouses Amazon has started trialling a new robot named Digit in its Seattle warehouse as part of its drive to increase automation. Digit, built by Agility Robotics, stands 175cm tall and can carry items weighing up to 16kg. The robot is designed to mimic human movements, including walking on two legs and climbing steps, which could make it very useful in complex warehouse environments. Currently, Digit is being taught to pick up and move empty totes—Amazon's signature yellow boxes—preparing them for reuse in the company's fulfilment process. With a daily working capacity of 16 hours, Digit matches the output of two full-time human workers. However, Digit is still only capable of basic actions and cannot yet identify items for packing or undertake more sophisticated tasks. What Makes Digit Unique? Digit's ability to navigate different terrains and handle tasks in a human environment marks a major advancement in robotics. Although the robot is still limited in its skills, its flexibility and run time make it a promising example of how robots may change workplaces in the future. What Jobs Do Robots Do? Robots are now a part of many areas of life and industry, performing tasks that would otherwise be difficult, dangerous, or repetitive for people. Here are a few types of robots and their primary roles: Manufacturing robots: Used for building and assembling products, such as cars, while reducing risks of injury and fatigue for humans. Tactical robots: Make dangerous items like explosives safe, keeping people out of harm’s way. Space exploration robots: Sent to explore planets and conduct research where sending humans would be costly or risky. Microscopic (nanobots): Used in medicine to deliver treatments inside the human body or carry out delicate operations. Household robots: Help clean, mow lawns, and even act as companions or assistants at home. Robots and the Changing World of Work Technological advances mean that robots are undertaking more complex tasks and are becoming increasingly common in workplaces. This shift may lead to humans and robots working closely together, with certain jobs evolving or becoming obsolete. While robots offer many advantages—such as improving safety and efficiency—they also raise questions about the future of work. Some jobs may always require a human touch, and it's important to consider which roles robots should and should not fill. Mutual Respect and Tolerance in a Changing World As robots become part of daily routines for some people, we must remember that beliefs and choices around technology can vary. Respect for different viewpoints and lifestyles is vital to building a fair and inclusive community. Additionally, using robots to take over dangerous or physically demanding tasks upholds the right of humans to be protected from work that could harm their health, education, or well-being. Reflection and Classroom Discussion Ideas To help students think critically about robotics and technology, consider these discussion prompts: What do you already know about robots? What would it be like to work alongside a robot like Digit? Which tasks would you trust a robot to do? Are there jobs robots could never do? How might robots change homes, schools, or workplaces in the future? Would you prefer a robot helper or an animal companion at home? Can you create an algorithm—the set of instructions a robot follows? Think about what makes a robot useful in daily life. Spotlight on Science and Community The Great Sphinx of Giza: Nature and Human Creativity A recent study from New York University suggests the original shape of the Great Sphinx of Giza may have been formed by natural erosion and then refined by humans. This research reveals how nature and human effort can combine to create some of our greatest monuments. Tackling Homelessness through Community Innovation In Canada, entrepreneur Marcel LeBrun is making a difference by developing the '12 Neighbours' project in Fredericton. This initiative creates micro home communities for homeless people, offering safe living spaces and onsite jobs. The homes are fully equipped and feature solar panels and colourful designs, showing how business success can fuel community transformation. Conservation in Action: Saving British Glow-Worms Ecologist Pete Cooper's 'Lights of hope: rewilding glow-worms' project is helping restore glow-worm populations in the UK. Loss of habitat and light pollution have threatened these unique beetles, but conservation efforts are underway to give them a brighter future. Did you know? Glow-worms are not worms but beetles. Females glow to attract males, who have wings. Projects like Pete’s are crucial to conserving native species and inspiring a new generation of environmental stewards. Key Vocabulary for the Week Automation: Using machines and computers to operate without human help. Fulfilment: Taking an order and sending a product to a customer. Sophisticated: Advanced or complex. Terrain: An area or type of land. Tote: A large strong bag with two handles. Trialled: Tested to assess suitability or performance. Further Reflection and Activities Encourage students to: Imagine or draw their own robot. What job would it do? Think about tasks at home or school that a robot could help with. Discuss pros and cons of robots in different roles, including manufacturing, household, and companionship. Explore the impact of technology on people's lives, beliefs, and communities. Join the Discussion and Find More Resources * Explore the latest Picture News resources here: https://picture-news.co.uk/free-sample * Join our latest discussion here: https://picture-news.co.uk/discuss * Explore our recent events and training here: https://picture-news.co.uk/training
