The 23rd annual Hazard Lecture Series at Heritage Academy in Columbus will delve into the evolving realm of robotics on two consecutive Mondays, Oct. 19 and Oct. 26.
“The Voyage of the Mind” is the focus as Dr. Mariah Morgan presents “Sweet Tea & Robotics: the Modern South” Oct. 19 and Dr. Cindy Bethel addresses “Look to the Stars: Robotics Today” Oct. 26. Both programs begin at 7 p.m. in the Heritage Academy Elementary School Auditorium at 623 Willowbrook Road at 7 p.m. The lectures are free and open to the public.
George Hazard Jr. and his sisters, Florence and Eulalie, started the lectures in 1992 in honor of their father, the late George Hazard.
“Over the years, we have had some fine science presentations — physics, Einstein’s work, volcanoes and Americans in space,” said Hazard. “This year’s programs should also attract students of all grade levels. There will be plenty to see and do, more audience action than we usually have.”
Robotics is the branch of technology that deals with the design, construction, operation and application of robots.
Throughout history, it has been frequently assumed that robots would one day be able to mimic human behavior, but research into the functionality and potential uses greatly expanded in the 20th century. Morgan and Bethel are well-equipped to address the topic.
“Sweet Tea & Robotics” Oct. 19
Morgan is an assistant Extension professor with the Center for Technology Outreach at Mississippi State University Extension Service. In 2009, she began the process of creating a statewide 4-H robotics program, which is continually being refined and expanded.
Morgan holds a doctoral degree in Instructional Technology from MSU, where she focused on what motivates participants in youth robotics programs. She is driven by the desire to use technology in ways that improve the lives of Mississippians.
“Look to the Stars” Oct. 26
The interaction of humans and robots, computers and robots and artificial intelligence are of great interest to Bethel. The associate professor in the Computer Science and Engineering Department at MSU is the director of the Social, Therapeutic and Robotic Systems (STaRS) lab. She is also a Research Fellow with the MSU Center for Advanced Vehicular Systems Human Performance Group, and affiliated faculty with the Department of Psychology. She holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science and Engineering from the University of South Florida.
Bethel’s work concentrates on applications associated with robotic therapeutic support, information gathering and the use of robots for law enforcement, search and rescue and the military.
The use of robotics is increasingly prolific, from taking the place of humans in dangerous environments such as defusing bombs or mines, to expediting manufacturing processes and exploring space. The lecture series shines attention on the rapidly expanding field.
Hazard remarked, “These productions again show Heritage Academy’s awareness of its role as an independent school, to make these extra offerings to the mental life of the city.”
For more information, contact Beth Lucas at Heritage Academy, 662-327-1556, or email [email protected].
Jan Swoope is the Lifestyles Editor for The Commercial Dispatch.
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