Skip to content

Computer Science Subject Spotlight

Can robots think for themselves?
with Dr Christoph Salge from the University of Hertfordshire

Try this university course before you apply - 100% free!

Watch a sample episode now

In this fascinating, robot driven Subject Spotlight, Christoph Salge, Reader  in Artificial Intelligence in Games at the University of Hertfordshire, presents: Can robots think for themselves? In the opening episode, he provides an introduction to AI and robotics, gives an overview of Computer Science in the modern world, and discusses robots and autonomous systems. In episode 2, Christoph presents the history of The Braitenberg Vehicle, discusses the mechanism behind it, and considers human/robot interaction, before introducing the Roomba as a case study, describing what it is, why it has been successful, how it works, and its societal impact in episode 3. In the final episode, Christoph delves deep into human-robot relations, asking you to complete a fascinating task to assess your own responses to different robots, and how understanding these reactions will impact the future integration of robots into our everyday routines!

Dr Christoph SalgeUniversity of HertfordshireComputer science

All episodes
1. AI and Robotics: a look at the future
2. The Braitenberg Vehicle
3. Case study: Roomba
4. How we see robots

About the university


University of Hertfordshire
University of Hertfordshire
University of Hertfordshire

Discover a diverse, campus-based community where your career aspirations become reality. We nurture entrepreneurs and develop tomorrow’s leaders, innovators and trailblazers, and have always specialised in powering every kind of potential. Courses are designed in partnership with employers and our facilities align with the demands of the industries you’ll work in after graduation. You’ll study in a community nestled in green spaces, yet being just 25 minutes north of London, our location opens up opportunities for work placements, learning experiences and social events. Herts. Beats Faster.

University of Hertfordshire profile →
Meet the academic
Dr Christoph Salge

Dr Chrisoph Salge is a Reader in Artificial Intelligence in Games at the University of Hertfordshire where he teaches various AI focussed classes as part of the Computer Science Curriculum. Much of Christoph’s research is focussed on games in all forms, and he is curious how artificial intelligence can make, improve or play games. He organises an international competition aimed at making the best AI to automatically build a settlement in Minecraft. He has also worked on several large robotics projects, one on robots that help people to walk again. Christoph is an avid gamer himself, and plays a variety of computer board and roleplaying games - and he is happy that his education allows him to work on a topic he is personally passionate about. 

In every Subject Spotlight you’ll find


On-demand interactive video content

Sign up, log in and access a wide range of potentially life-changing Subject Spotlight experiences that will help you make informed decisions about your university future.

Remarkable & relatable academics

Learn from some of the UK’s finest and most decorated academics as they give you a genuine, insightful and engaging experience of studying their courses at their universities.

Interactive quizzes and activities

Have a go at fascinating interactive quizzes and activities, then get meaningful and intuitive feedback from the academics to see how you’ve done.

Content to enhance students’ personal statements

Hear direct from the academics what’s expected of you in your personal statements, and the things you can do to improve your chances of getting on the course you most desire!

Certificate of completion

You’ll receive a certificate of completion to evidence your learning - why not add this to your CV and university applications to show your dedication to your future pathway!

Frequently asked questions


What is a Subject Spotlight?
Why should I check out Subject Spotlights?
Who is this Spotlight for?
How should I talk about completing a Subject Spotlight on my personal statement?