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The College of Engineering and Computer Science at Â鶹ŮÀÉ recently welcomed 40 K–5 students from for a hands-on day of STEM exploration and robotics discovery.

Led by Hari Kalva, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, along with students from the College, the visit served as a special extension of the Ìý Initiative, an NSF-funded informal learning program that introduces children to microchips, sensors, coding, and data collection through gardening and plant-sensor projects.

Building on concepts introduced through the program, students explored how these technologies are applied across robotics, digital fabrication, and intelligent systems research.

One stop on the tour included the Â鶹ŮÀÉ Fab Lab ,Ìýwhere students learned how engineers transform ideas into physical prototypes using advanced design and fabrication tools. The visit provided an introduction to the innovation process, from concept development to hands-on creation.

Students also participated in an interactive robotics demonstration led by graduate students from the Ìý Multimedia Systems Lab (M-Lab). During the session, they assisted in coding for a robotic dog and observed how software, sensors, and real-time control systems work together to enable intelligent robotic behavior.

The experience offered students an early glimpse into emerging technologies while demonstrating how engineering and computer science are used to solve real-world challenges. Through programs like Chips N Salsa and opportunities to engage directly with STEM, the College continues to inspire the next generation of innovators, problem-solvers, and technology leaders.