INESC TEC takes Science to IPO Porto

Over this year, INESC TEC researchers will bring Science to the Portuguese Oncology Institute (IPO), namely to the Paediatrics service.  

The goal? To awaken the curiosity of children who are hospitalised and undergoing treatment at this institution, by sharing the daily work carried out at INESC TEC. The challenge? To promote educational and interactive sessions for said children. 

The first session took place in February, with INESC TEC researchers working on robotics. André Dias, Diana Viegas and Sara Costa Freitas introduced the NAO Robot to the children, first showing them the robot’s sensors and then promoting an action that allowed them to share basic concepts of robotics and programming. The programming work was done using Clementoni’s Super DOC, and then through micro:bit and tiny:bit devices. Then, the researchers introduced a small programming challenge for the older children, encouraging them to continue with the work done during the session.  

INESC TEC is leading this initiative through the Technical Commission for Social Responsibility. The sessions are expected to last three months, addressing INESC TEC domains.