Robotics Research Promotes Inclusivity in STEM Education
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According to IEEE Spectrum Robotics, Carlotta Berry, a professor at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, is championing inclusivity in STEM education through her work on open-source robotics. Berry's unique journey in engineering began in the 1980s and 90s, where she faced challenges not only due to the economic barriers of accessing robotics but also as one of the few women and Black students in her program.
This inspired her commitment to ensure that future students have hands-on experiences with robotics and that diversity is represented in engineering fields. Her initiatives include the creation of the LilyBot, a modular 3D-printed robot designed to be accessible and low-cost, allowing more students to engage in robotics education.
Berry's outreach extends beyond her university, as she actively takes her robots into schools, libraries, and community venues, engaging a wide range of audiences from young children to adult educators.
She emphasizes the importance of representation, noting that only about 8% of electronics engineers are women and only 5% are Black. By promoting her robots in historically marginalized communities, she aims to inspire future generations and shift the narrative in STEM.
Berry's involvement in co-founding Black in Engineering and Black in Robotics has further expanded her efforts in creating a supportive network for Black professionals in STEM. She believes visibility matters, which has led her to be active on social media despite her introverted nature, further amplifying her outreach efforts.
In addition to her robotics initiatives, Berry has authored children's books aimed at sparking interest in STEM among young readers. The series begins with a title inspired by a dream during the pandemic, showcasing children learning to program robots.
Berry's work has gained recognition, earning her awards such as the IEEE Robotics and Automation Society's Undergraduate Teaching Award for her contributions to diversifying STEM education. Her holistic approach intertwines research, teaching, and community service, demonstrating that education can be both technical and impactful in shaping inclusive futures in robotics.