STEM Institute Introduces "Sam E. Nole"

Erica Martin

2013-10-10

Sam E. Nole has become the latest addition to the FSU Panama City’s STEM Institute in an effort to create engaging learning experiences for K-12 students and teachers who inspire the next generation to pursue STEM education and careers. The fully programmable humanoid robot will offer students a hands-on level of interaction in computer programming and application.

Sam E. Nole, which was funded by a grant from the AT&T Foundation, was designed by Aldebaran Robotics. Her 23-inch-tall body has 25 degrees of freedom that can be programmed using electric motors and actuators. Sam’s communications package includes two cameras, four microphones, sonar rangefinder, a voice synthesizer, speakers and LED lights. She is programmed using an Intel ATOM 1.6 ghz central processing unit that runs a Linux kernel and supports Aldebaran’s proprietary middleware (NAOqi) located in the head section. A secondary central processor is in the torso.

All this gear allows Sam to navigate her environment in an interactive way.

“The STEM Institute will utilize Same E. to not only allow our university students to expand their horizons in the areas of robotics but extends the reach of FSU Panama City into the K-12 classrooms around the region,” STEM Institute Director Ginger Littleton said. Sam already has plans to attend Jinks Middle School, the University Academy and the Panama City Science and Discovery Center.

FSU Panama City has obtained 50 additional use licenses, allowing schools to participate Sam’s programming, including teaching body movement, sound engineering, social interaction language, emotional development understanding and computer skills that will inspire students to participate in projects that further STEM goals.

During the unveiling presentation Monday, Oct. 16, Sam demonstrated voice, sound and movement programmed by FSU Panama City computer science students Brian Hague and Bipol Alam. The robot displayed fluid movement in a Tai Chi exhibition, the symbolic FSU Chop and “Gangnam Style” dance moves.

About Philanthropy at AT&T

AT&T Inc. is committed to advancing education, strengthening communities and improving lives. Through its philanthropic initiatives, AT&T has a long history of supporting projects that create learning opportunities; promote academic and economic achievement; and address community needs. In 2012, more than $131 million was contributed through corporate-, employee- and AT&T Foundation-giving programs.