Humans vs robots

Telemedicine is a new and fast developing field in healthcare.  Even 20 years ago the idea of a surgeon being able to operate a robot from hundreds of miles away in order to perform an operation seemed like science fiction.

Today, this is not only possible but engineers, working with scientists and doctors, are now designing robotic systems which will be able to operate on patients with no human intervention at all.

This engaging activity allows students to consider the social, ethical and moral issues associated with the development of new technology. The activity offers strong opportunities for cross-curricular work with PSHE, PSE, PSD.

This is one of a set of resources developed to aid the teaching of the secondary national curriculum, particularly KS3. It has been designed to support the delivery of key topics within science and design and technology (DT).

Activity: Consider ethical and moral issues around new technology

Students will be divided into groups and given a scenario: the creation of the world's first entirely autonomous robot surgeon. Some groups, representing the engineers, scientists, and doctors who designed the robot, will argue for the continuation of the project. Other groups, representing patients' groups and doctors' unions, will argue against further development due to perceived risks. Using a newspaper article and worksheet as guides, students will formulate robust arguments for their assigned viewpoints. They'll then pair up and debate the issue, striving to reach a mutually agreed way forward.

Download our activity overview and presentation for a detailed lesson plan for teaching students about ethical and moral issues around new technology.

The engineering context

This activity demonstrates how engineers must grapple with not only the technical challenges of designing new technology but also its societal implications. It highlights the importance of considering varying viewpoints and ethical concerns when developing new technologies.

Suggested learning outcomes

Through this activity, students will gain a deep understanding of what remote surgery entails and the social, ethical, and moral implications of such technological advances. They'll also learn to appreciate that different groups may have varying perspectives on scientific and technological progress. By engaging in structured debates, students will enhance their analytical skills, learn to articulate their viewpoints persuasively, and develop the ability to negotiate and compromise.

Download our activity sheet and other teaching resources

The activity sheet includes teachers’ notes, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download (including film clips!), and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs.

Download our classroom lesson plan, worksheet, handouts and our PowerPoint presentation below.

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