By Candice Zhang
This September, George Brown launched a new Service Robotics program through their partnership with GlobalDWS for the Continuing Education department. Throughout the 120-hour certificate program, students will learn about robot applications, current and future market trends, and the impact of technology on consumers.
Even though the course is delivered through George Brown, the instructors and subject matter experts are from GlobalDWS – an international systems provider focusing on new and current technologies. George Brown and GlobalDWS have worked together on numerous projects when discussing the implementation of robotics. Last year, GlobalDWS donated ‘Georgie,’ the service robot at GBC.
Unlike other technology programs, the Service Robotics program focuses on the end user.
“[The program] is not about being the IT expert or the Robotics expert,” said Joseph Sirianni, the chair of technology and trades department from the Centre of Continuous Learning. “It is made for the average, everyday user.”
GlobalDWS donated ‘Georgie’, the school’s very own service robot, in August of last year.
Sirianni says the program does not focus on the programming or coding aspect of robotics, but rather on the perspective of applying service robots to any given industry. Similar to the idea of a regular ‘robot,’ a service robot is defined as a robot “that performs tasks for humans or equipment excluding industrial automation applications.” They are either classified for either ‘personal’ or ‘professional’ use.
Since some service robots can complete tasks with minimal supervision, many individuals are worried that robots may take over certain jobs. But Sirianni doesn’t share those concerns.
“The key concept is to realize that the service robot is not meant to replace an employee but rather do the menial tasks,” said Sirianni. “[In this case], the employee can do the higher-level problem-solving.”
The student’s required coursework is reflected on a similar perspective. The four courses students will take address the implementation of service robots in their chosen industry. Prior to finishing the program, the instructors are hoping that students will be able to carry out an effective implementation plan while understanding the importance of service robots for the future.
“The program is focused on service robots and business,” said Jessica Knelson, the technical marketing specialist at GlobalDWS and subject matter expert of the course. “We will touch upon a brief history of robots and look towards the development of robots in the future.”
Although mainly technology students are interested in the program, instructors think that many students can connect their industry experiences with the coursework. An increase in people working from home means technology is affecting our lives now more than ever.
“This is such a new area, that at the end of the day, people want to get a feel into what is involved,” said Sirianni.
In order to create a hands-on approach for an online program, George Brown and GlobalDWS are in the process of discussing further lab components and practical work experiences.
“[We are] currently discussing with [GlobalDWS] about applied research opportunities to advance the world and technology of service robotics,” Rick Huijbregts, the college’s vice-president of strategy and innovation said. “We are working with program committees as well to implement a modernized curriculum for the students.”
In the end, the instructors hope that students will be better equipped into a technologically focused workforce. As service robots become more prominent in different industries, instructors hope that students will be ready to tackle such changes.
