Classes VI-IX students to receive training in robotics laboratories

Chennai: Students studying in Classes VI to IX in govt schools are set to learn basic electronics, building of robots, and operating drones through experiments in robotics labs.To create an interest in science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) among young students, the school education department has established 15 robotics labs in as many districts on a pilot basis. The state council for educational research and training (SCERT) is drafting the syllabus in partnership with Anna University for these lab classes."The lab course will have 10% theory and 90% practical classes. Students will work on 10 experiments designed by Anna University," an official from the school education department said. Each lab, which is being established at the cost of 40 lakh, will have 11 types of kits, including robotics STEM workstation, design and prototype virtual labs, multifunctional robotics, and smart dustbin programme.Students will get two hours every week to perform experiments and projects at the lab. Along with electronics, they will also learn about basic science principles. The experiments will be based on real-life examples and obstacles. "During the course, a student will do 10 different experiments. Anna University, which is a knowledge partner, will conduct practicals and assessment at the end of the course. After assessment, students will get certificates from Anna University," the official added.Under the Samagra Shiksha scheme, the robotics labs were planned to be established in 38 schools in all districts in the state. However, the Union govt did not release the funds approved by the project approval board (PAB), citing the state's opposition to the three-language formula in PM SHRI schools. Now, the state govt is funding the scheme, and it is being implemented in a phased manner.In the first phase, robotics labs are being established in 15 districts, including Chennai, Kancheepuram, Kanyakumari, Pudukkottai, Vellore, Salem, Tuticorin, Tirupathur, Tiruvarur, Dharmapuri, Trichy, Kallakurichi, Coimbatore, Sivaganga, and Virudhunagar. After preparing the syllabus and textbooks for the robotics classes, the students will be trained in these labs.