Machines are becoming more and more human. Are we ready?
Whether you know it or not, robots are already part of your life. They helped deliver the package that’s at your front door. They wrapped the candy bar you’re about to eat. They built the computer you watch YouTube videos on. But scientists today are thinking of new jobs for robots: teacher, doctor, maybe even best friend.
Just Like Us
Today, most robots do simple, repetitive jobs. They work in car factories. They pick vegetables on farms. Some robots do work that is too dangerous for humans—like exploring volcanoes and taking apart bombs.
Scientists hope to create robots with even more-advanced artificial intelligence. That means that robots would be able to learn, think, and even feel emotions, just like we do. Some experts say these robots could be part of our lives as soon as 2040.
For humans to trust robots, scientists think robots will have to look just like us. Engineers use tiny motors so robots wink and smile. The robots’ skin is plastic, but you can’t tell. The final creations look almost human.
Robot Helpers
Someday, every family might have its own robot helper. Maybe yours would pick you up from school. It could help your dad make dinner, complimenting his spaghetti and meatballs.
Humanlike robots might also take care of sick people, help in stores, act in movies—basically, do anything that a person can do.
Could robots become so similar to us that we stop seeing them as robots? No one knows yet. But as scientists continue trying to construct lifelike bots, we are coming closer to finding out.
Can't Miss Teaching Extras
This amazing infographic from a 2016 Storyworks Jr. article showcases some of the ways that robots can emulate humans’ best qualities.
In this brief article, an engineering professor answers the difficult question “Are robots smarter than humans?” in a very kid-friendly way.
This 2-minute video showcases a hotel in Japan that’s entirely run by robots. Even the fish in the lobby are robotic!
In this 4-minute video, Tech Insider covers 10 new robots designed to make humans’ lives easier, including one that will fold your clothes, one that will make your dinner, and even one that will make your bed! Ask your students which one they would most want to have and why.
