Performing robots: innovative interdisciplinary projects

Abstract

By challenging and engaging students in interdisciplinary projects, we provide a learning platform to enhance creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, while promoting an innovation-oriented culture in academia. In this paper, we summarize interdisciplinary and undergraduate research projects in music and animation that integrate technologies from both disciplines to create unique and innovative projects. Iterative development coupled with various forms of visual and audio feedback enhanced the student learning experience with positive feedback from students. These efforts have resulted in the awarding of internal grant funding, interest in additional undergraduate research projects, and enhanced awareness of the application of technology to other disciplines.