ASIMO Inspires Future Scientists: Bronx Middle School Wins Essay Contest

Strategic Insights -

Nine students from New York City's MS 390 middle school were honored with a visit from ASIMO, the world's most advanced humanoid robot, as the winners of the ASIMO Essay Contest. Inspired by ASIMO, the students imagined a future where robots like ASIMO could be used in underwater research, firefighting, and other humanitarian efforts. The students' winning essay, compiled by 8th-grader Asetta Ramsey, envisioned a future where robots could act as helpers for people in need.

Key Takeaways:

  • The ASIMO Essay Contest was open to students nationwide, with over 560 participants from 23 states.
  • The contest asked students to describe their vision for the future role of humanoid robots and why ASIMO should visit their school.
  • The winning essay was compiled by 8th-grader Asetta Ramsey and her classmates, imagining a future where robots like ASIMO could be used in various humanitarian efforts.
  • The MS 390 students took part in a robotics program called "RoboLab," the only program of its kind in the Bronx, where they built small robots and programmed them to perform specific challenges.
  • The winning essay was judged on creativity, methodology, and accuracy by a panel of scientists, engineers, and educators.
  • MS 390 is a New York City Department of Education public middle school, serving students in grades 5, 6, 7, and 8, with a mission to "Strive for Excellence."
  • The school is in the process of strengthening its educational programs and restructuring its academic curriculum, with a grant from the Beaumont Foundation providing students with access to laptop computers.

Statistics:

  • Over 80,000 students and museum visitors saw ASIMO in person since the launch of the "Say Hello to ASIMO" North American Educational Tour in January 2003.
  • ASIMO is the world's only bi-pedal humanoid robot capable of walking forward and backward, turning while walking, and ascending and descending stairs.
  • Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has spent more than 18 years researching and developing ASIMO.
  • Honda produced more than 17 million engines globally in 2003, solidifying its position as the world's preeminent engine-maker.
  • American Honda Motor Co., Inc. employs more than 21,000 Americans in the design, manufacture, and marketing of Honda's products in America.

Sources:

  • PRNewswire, "Nine New York City Students Win National Essay Contest on Future of Humanoid Robotics" (March 11)
  • American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
  • ASIMO.honda.com
  • Honda Motor Co., Ltd. press release
  • New York City Department of Education
  • Beaumont Foundation