Aberdeen Science Centre is encouraging families to escape the winter weather and enjoy fun for the whole family during the mid-term school break, as it delves into the exciting world of robotics and artificial intelligence (AI).
Running throughout February, the centre’s Artificial World theme, sponsored by Viaro Energy, will explore one of today’s most talked-about topics: how AI and robotics are being used at work and in everyday life.
The Artificial World workshop will give visitors an inside look at the roles humans and robots play across a range of jobs and industries, including agriculture, medicine and space.
Participants will discover which tasks humans excel at, where robots perform best, and how the two can work together.
Other AI-themed fun includes activities involving drones and information about the history of robots and AI.
Aberdeen Science Centre will also host a special event in partnership with Robert Gordon University (RGU) on Wednesday, February 11, exploring the fast-changing world of generative AI in a fun and engaging way.
The event forms part of RGU’s Generative Artificial Intelligence Skills in Schools (GenAISiS) project, funded by Responsible AI UK, and are designed to help families, educators and young people understand both the opportunities and challenges presented by these powerful technologies.
During the session, participants will engage directly with AI tools to spot bias and so-called ‘AI hallucinations’, experiment with prompt engineering to see how different wording produces different results, explore cartoon video stories voiced by young people sharing their own experiences of AI and learn how AI systems use the data that users provide.
Also running on Sunday, March 8 and 15, these events will help young people to protect their privacy when using AI and help them to build critical media and information literacy skills, enabling them to better judge what is real and what has been created using AI.
The GenAISiS project was developed in collaboration with secondary school students and school librarians, resulting in open educational resources that empower young people to think critically, act responsibly and understand their rights when engaging with AI.
Alongside the AI and robotics activities - all included in the standard entry price - visitors can also enjoy Aberdeen Science Centre’s full range of hands-on exhibits, ensuring families have plenty to see and do together during the school break.
Calli Buchanan, public programme coordinator at Aberdeen Science Centre, said: “The mid-term break is the perfect opportunity for families to spend quality time together, and Aberdeen Science Centre is the perfect place to do just that, particularly during the winter months when outdoor options can be limited.
“Just because the schools are closed doesn’t mean learning has to stop, and this February, we’re inviting families to explore the fascinating world of AI and robotics through fun, interactive activities that will spark curiosity, encourage discovery and inspire young minds.”
Later in February, Aberdeen Science Centre will host a special Colour Lab-themed Little Explorers Day, designed especially for younger children to spark early curiosity in science. Taking place on Thursday, February 19, the event will invite junior scientists to explore colourful chemical reactions and discover the basics of chromatography through hands-on, age-appropriate activities.
The day will also feature themed storytelling inspired by the colours of the rainbow, creative crafts, colour and light play activities and a fun Chinese New Year-inspired scavenger hunt around the centre.
The Colour Lab Little Explorers Day offers a playful and engaging introduction to science, encouraging young children to experiment, ask questions and learn through exploration in a supportive environment.
To book a visit to the centre during the mid-term break visit https://aberdeensciencecentre.org/