Youth Engagement

Our AI and Robotics Youth Panel was established following deliberative dialogues in West Lothian across October 2023, which explored public perceptions of AI and Robotics. This series explored current behaviours, concerns, barriers to adoption, and aspirations for the future of technology.

Additionally, the community discussions identified young people as a key audience to further engage with, as their lives and future careers are heavily influenced by these new technologies. We therefore introduced a follow-on Youth Panel around the subject comprising fifteen 16-17 year olds, recruited in collaboration with Young Scot, a Scottish youth-led charity. The Youth Panel explored a range of themes which followed on from the original consultation, exploring young people's knowledge of AI and Robotics, current digital behaviours, as well as their feelings and understandings towards new technologies.

We toured behind the scenes of various labs across The National Robotarium and The Bayes Centre. Throughout the workshops, we ensured skills building was embedded - allowing the cohort to develop facilitation, presentation and critical thinking skills, alongside building their knowledge of new technologies. Following the workshops, we hosted a final event at Panmure House near the Scottish Parliament, which was co-designed by the cohort and involved a panel of researchers in a discussion which was facilitated by two members of the panel.

You can find out more about our Youth panels and get involved through our LinkedIn channel.