Engineering Humans

Engineering Humans was a virtual programme showcasing robotics, human rehabilitation and enhancement technology to inspire the next wave of engineers from Central and Eastern Lancashire.

Advanced robotics, cobot and automation research and design are burgeoning fields in the region. This locale shows high economic diversity and positioned this new online programme perfectly to be delivered to over 300 aspirational high school pupils.

A multi-disciplinary team from the University of Central Lancashire recruited some of the world’s best and brightest minds to spotlight their stories. Engineers, co-creating with a student-led media production team, produced fascinating insights through short narrative interviews that were combined with live online demonstrations by a group of industry volunteers, showcasing the latest advances in technology.

Find out more about the project here

See the project action in these Instagram posts:

‘Young people make their minds up around the types of people that do STEM jobs by the age of 5-7, so stereotypical misconceptions are laid down very early. By the age of 11/12 years, these misconceptions can often become solidified meaning that young people do not understand the breadth of STEM careers, that they are ‘for them’, and also how exciting continuing to study STEM can be. By working with young people on this project, we are broadening young peoples perceptions of STEM.’

Helen Heggie, Managing Director, STEMFirst

‘It brought out the creative side in pupils that we wouldn’t have expected to see. Some of the pupils that might struggle in some other lessons, excelled when they were able to think in a creative and imaginative way, creating technologies that don’t exist yet and thinking about how they could help people around them. It enhanced their moral and social perspectives.’

Jenna Caw, Teacher, All Hallows School

‘Girls have developed a further interest in STEM careers. (Those who have participated in the project) We are now participating in ‘Innovate Her’ also, as this will allow more girls in to the industry, and encourage our KS3 further.

Joanne Shuttleworth, Southshore Academy

Engineering Humans

Ingenious awardees 2021

‘Girls have developed a further interest in STEM careers. (Those who have participated in the project) We are now participating in ‘Innovate Her’ also, as this will allow more girls in to the industry, and encourage our KS3 further.