Local science visitor attraction launches artificial intelligence-inspired activities, sponsored by Viaro Energy and UK Research and Innovation 

Aberdeen Science Centre has launched a new theme that will see it introduce a suite of workshops, experiments and activities, inspired by the developments in artificial intelligence (AI). 

The new Artificial World theme, which starts in February, will explore the progress made in recent years in advancing AI and examine what the world currently uses robots and AI for, sponsored by Viaro Energy, a Viaro Energy, an independent UK-based energy company. Focused on long-term value and responsible development, Viaro supports initiatives that encourage learning and innovation.   

The centre will also be running free-to-attend ‘Demystifying AI’ group experiences and club packages, designed to introduce and develop young people’s understanding of AI, in February, March and April, supported by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), with project development from Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC, part of UKRI).  

The Artificial World workshop will give participants an inside look at the roles humans and robots play in different jobs and industries, including agriculture, medicine and space, as they investigate what jobs each are best suited to. 

Other AI-themed fun will be found across the centre’s exhibition space throughout February and March, including online machine learning game stations, activities involving drones and information about the history of robots and AI. Images and references to robots from popular TV shows and films will also be scattered around the centre, with visitors challenged to identify them all.  

Younger visitors to Aberdeen Science Centre can join with the new theme, as they play with Sphero Indi robot cars, planning routes for them and trying to avoid obstacles, in the designated Under 6 Zone. 

The ‘Demystifying AI’ group sessions, suitable for children aged 7-14 and taking place in February and March, includes an AI workshop, exploring the centre’s exhibition floor and taking part in Science of the Spot activities. Spaces in each session are limited, with priority being given to groups from underserved and underrepresented communities. 

These events will run on Wednesday, 18th February (6pm-8:30pm), Friday, 20th February (6pm-8:30pm), Friday, 6th March (6pm-8:30pm) and Saturday, 7th March (10am-12:30pm). 

This will be followed by the Demystifying AI Club, running in early April, which will focus on understanding AI through practical activities. Suitable for children aged 6-14, these two-hour club sessions will run as part of four two-day blocks.  

Participants can choose to take part in one of the four blocks, which includes Monday, 6th and Tuesday, 7th April from 10am-12pm, Monday, 6th and Tuesday, 7th April from 1:30pm-3:30pm, Wednesday, 8th April and Thursday, 9th April from 10am-12pm and Wednesday, 8th April and Thursday, 9th April from 1:30pm-3:30pm. 

Spaces in the Demystifying AI Club and group sessions can be booked by filling out a form on the Aberdeen Science Centre website. Following this, a member of the centre’s team will reach out to confirm the registration.  

Calli Buchanan, public programme coordinator at Aberdeen Science Centre, said:
“Artificial intelligence is one of the most talked-about topics today. Through our Artificial World theme, we want to explore why this is and offer a fun introduction to AI as we look at its capabilities. Throughout February, March and early April, visitors to our centre can experience new activities that will explore how AI and robots are present all throughout our lives, jobs and hobbies, and the impact they have in many industries.  

“We are grateful for the support of Viaro Energy and UKRI in helping us bring these new activities to life, which will increase awareness of what AI and technology can do, all in a fun and interactive way. Our new activities are suitable for all ages, giving every member of the family the chance to explore and discover more about the world of AI in an engaging and hands-on environment.” 

Jillian Owen, COO of Viaro said:
“At Viaro, innovation and creative thinking are central to how we approach our business and our future. Supporting the Artificial World theme reflects our commitment to learning, new technology and the skills that will shape tomorrow’s workforce. It is important that young people and families have opportunities to explore how innovation is changing the world in an accessible and inspiring way”. 

All activities included as part of the Artificial World theme will be included in the standard admission price for Aberdeen Science Centre. 

Based on Constitution Street near Aberdeen beach, Aberdeen Science Centre is home to almost 65 interactive exhibits, allowing people of all ages to discover topics including Space, Energy, Life Sciences, Engineering, and much more. 

Open seven days a week, Aberdeen Science Centre offers exclusive venue hire as well as room hire for corporate, social and private events. 

To book a visit to the centre or find out more about corporate opportunities, visit https://aberdeensciencecentre.org/ and to book a space in the Demystifying AI Club group sessions, visit https://aberdeensciencecentre.org/events/demystifying-ai/ 

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