Are you curious about where computational advancements will be in four decades? The Computing Community Consortium’s (CCC) council member Bill Gropp and The Computing Research Association’s Widening Participation (CRA-WP) board member Nancy Amato along with four other faculty members from the University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign (UIUC) shared their knowledge on how developments in computer science and robotics will impact society by 2067.  In an article from Illinois Alumni at the UIUC, these experts see a future of innovation and optimism despite possible challenges.  Computer Science In the future, Gropp explained that computing advancements won’t rely on faster hardware alone. Instead, compute speedups will depend on making processes more efficient […]

In today’s rapidly advancing technological landscape, robots are seen as a potential tool for childhood education and development. From educational resources to companionship, experts such as roboticist Henrik Christensen believe robots can mentor children.  “There are companies who have created robots to help children with autism. They have found that kids like to interact with them rather than other kids,” Christensen said. “It can be helpful for all children, especially with learning how to read or develop math skills. Kids can get mentorship individually at home.” Now let’s explore how robots can benefit children in various aspects of their growth and learning journey. Making learning engaging One of the primary […]

In another installment of CCC’s Weekly Computing News, we are sharing a technical tool to support the health and wellbeing of veterans and other vulnerable populations. AI-enabled support for veterans A team of researchers from Arizona State University, led by associate professors Nicole Roberts and Ming Zhao, is pioneering a project aimed at enhancing healthcare outcomes for aging veterans using artificial intelligence and edge computing technologies. Veterans, who often face social isolation and health challenges due to their unique life experiences, are the focus of this initiative. The project, supported by a grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF), aims to develop a specialized AI system called EdgeCare. This system […]

In recent years, industries have been struggling with a significant challenge: a shortage of skilled labor. This issue spans various fields, from manufacturing to healthcare, and is increased by factors such as demographic shifts, skill gaps, and economic fluctuations.  However, amidst these challenges, research such as the 2024 Robotics Roadmap see robotics and automation as a possible solution. Here’s how: Revolutionizing Manufacturing One of the most prominent areas where robotics is making a transformative impact is manufacturing. Traditionally labor-intensive processes have increasingly been automated, not to replace human workers, but to complement their efforts. Robots excel in tasks requiring precision, consistency, and repetition, allowing human workers to focus on more […]

The 2024 Robotics Roadmap, released on April 26, states that the United States, once a frontrunner in robotics innovation, now faces a critical juncture as it lags behind global counterparts in adoption and investment.  But there is hope if we fully leverage the transformative potential of robotics technology. A cohesive national strategy is essential, requiring coordinated efforts across industry, academia, and government.  Here are four ways robotics can ease long-term challenges in the US. Supporting the Aging Population With the aging population in the US, robotics can play a significant role in providing assistance and care for the elderly. Robotic companions, exoskeletons for mobility support, and automated home systems can […]

In another installment of CCC’s Weekly Computing News, we are sharing an impactful collaboration between The National Science Foundation (NSF) and Navajo Technical University (NTU). This partnership gives Navajo students the opportunity to build solutions for issues that help their communities.  Navajo Technical University partners with NSF center, creating new opportunities in materials research and education Since its inception in 2017, the collaboration between NTU and NSF Materials Research Science and Engineering Center at Harvard University has opened new avenues for Navajo students to pursue advanced degrees in science and engineering.  NTU’s collaboration with Harvard concentrates on materials research topics crucial to the Navajo community. This includes the development of […]