UCL and digital products giant ARM have launched an Internet of Things educational kit aimed at creating a new generation of technically skilled students.
Those behind the partnership hope to push more students into science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) related professions. Currently around 50% of STEM graduates pursue careers in different areas.
The educational kit will teach students how to use ARM hardware and software, specifically the ARM mbed™ IoT Device Platform, and create new technologies in the Internet of Things space.
The kit includes hardware, software and educational material and will be first available from September in a week-long IoT module for full-time MSc and Continuing Professional Development UCL students.
The boom of IoT
The Internet of Things was the hot topic at this year’s CES in Las Vegas and ARM hope the announcement can act as a catalyst for the UK’s Internet of Things sector.
“The growth of the IoT gives us a great opportunity to prove to students why our profession is more exciting and sustainable than others,” explained Mike Muller, chief technology officer at ARM.
“New technologies make it far easier to start a business and there’s a huge appetite for highly motivated young people to help companies such as ARM deliver innovation that will shape the world’s future.”
British Internet of Things
IoT in the UK has received a few big boosts over the past few months, including Tech City UK’s inaugural IoT Launchpad which saw seven startups split a £1m fund to grow their businesses.
Both London and Cambridge’s IoT sectors have grown rapidly in the past 12 months. Cambridge-based Neul was acquired by Huawei, who announced they hope to transform the university city into a centre of excellence for the sector.