Robotics
A robot spins in circles instead of moving forward. What is the most likely issue?
One wheel/motor is malfunctioning or programmed incorrectly.
Why are airplane crashes investigated so carefully?
To prevent future accidents and improve safety.
Your group project keeps failing even though everyone is smart. What hidden variable may be affecting success?
Poor communication/teamwork.
Someone makes a joke they think is funny, but it hurts another person’s feelings. What matters besides intent?
The impact on the other person.
Why did VHS eventually lose popularity?
DVDs/streaming became higher quality and easier.
A self-driving robot vacuum keeps bumping into your dog because the sensors only detect walls. What is the best engineering solution?
Add obstacle/pet detection sensors or improve programming.
What invention records pilot conversations and flight data?
The black box (flight recorder).
A robot works perfectly in practice but fails during competition. What hidden variable could explain this?
Stress, different environment, battery issues, interference.
A classmate interrupts constantly during discussions. What are two possible explanations besides “they’re rude”?
Excitement, impulsivity, anxiety, misunderstanding social rules, etc.
What is one reason some inventions fail even if they are creative?
Too expensive, impractical, or ahead of their time.
A robot arm keeps grabbing objects too hard and crushing them. What should be adjusted?
Grip strength/pressure settings.
Many aviation safety rules were created after accidents revealed what?
Weaknesses in training, communication, or aircraft systems.
Why is it dangerous to make decisions without enough information?
You may overlook important factors or consequences.
Why is it important to ask clarifying questions before assuming someone’s motives?
Assumptions can lead to conflict or misunderstanding.
Why did pagers mostly disappear?
Smartphones replaced them.
During a competition, your robot suddenly stops responding to controls. Give two possible causes.
Lost connection, dead battery, coding crash, sensor failure, etc.
Why is communication between pilots and air traffic control critical?
Miscommunication can lead to dangerous situations/collisions.
A student suddenly becomes rude during group work. What is a possible hidden variable?
Stress, frustration, lack of sleep, personal issue, misunderstanding.
A student is quiet during group work. Why shouldn’t you immediately assume they don’t care?
They may be shy, anxious, thinking, or unsure.
Some old technology failed because people found it too complicated. What does this teach engineers?
Technology should be user-friendly.
A robot follows commands exactly, even harmful ones. What does this show about AI limitations?
AI lacks morality/common sense unless programmed for it.
What major lesson did aviation learn from early mechanical failures?
Redundancy and safety backups are essential.
In engineering, why is testing under different conditions important?
Real-world situations vary and reveal hidden problems.
Why are many social situations considered “gray areas” instead of simply right or wrong?
Human behavior is complex and depends on context and perspective.
Name one risk companies face when refusing to adapt to new technology.
Becoming outdated or losing customers.