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Robotics Crash Course

The “Robotics Crash Course” is an introductory course focused on exposing students to the fundamentals of robotic systems as well as various tools that would be used throughout development of these systems. Learning how to integrate sensors and actuators (sometimes called motors) using a micro-processor, is a central lesson taught throughout the timeline of the class. Students will assemble and program a small differential drive robot as well as design and implement various algorithms to complete challenges. This course is a great introduction to many courses you will see throughout your college engineering education curriculum. 

Students will be exposed to: 

  • Electronics theory 
  • Programming in C++ on an Arduino microcontroller 
  • Uses of various sensors and actuators 
  • Introductory Physics and Calculus 
  • Unix shell 
  • Simulating dynamic systems with Python 
  • Algorithm Visualization (Block Diagrams - State Machines) 
  • Introductory Feedback Control Systems 
  • Teamwork and problem solving 

Instructors: Michael Giglia, Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Staff and Adjunct Faculty, and Cooper Union student teaching assistants 

Participants: Students in 10th or 11th grade in the 2022-2023 school year. 

Session information: This six-week program offers one session starting Monday, July 10, 2023. Classes meet Monday - Thursday, 9 am to 3 pm.

Prerequisite: Experience programming in an object-oriented language such as C, C++, Java, or Python. 

Teaching method: In person. The instructor and teaching assistants will lead students through daily scheduled lectures, discussions, and practice sessions at 41 Cooper Square. 

Materials: A CU Robot kit will be provided to students on the first day of class. Students can opt to bring a personal computer. 

Cost: $3995

Apply now: https://connect.cooper.edu/apply/
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Credits: 0.00

Course Code: STEM22-5

  • Founded by inventor, industrialist and philanthropist Peter Cooper in 1859, The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art offers education in art, architecture and engineering, as well as courses in the humanities and social sciences.

  • “My feelings, my desires, my hopes, embrace humanity throughout the world,” Peter Cooper proclaimed in a speech in 1853. He looked forward to a time when, “knowledge shall cover the earth as waters cover the great deep.”

  • From its beginnings, Cooper Union was a unique institution, dedicated to founder Peter Cooper's proposition that education is the key not only to personal prosperity but to civic virtue and harmony.

  • Peter Cooper wanted his graduates to acquire the technical mastery and entrepreneurial skills, enrich their intellects and spark their creativity, and develop a sense of social justice that would translate into action.