CAP: Expanding Education & Research in AI-Enabled Swarm Computing Evolution (EXPERIENCE)

Project Summary

This project, ExpandAI: EXPERIENCE (EXPanding Education & Research in AI-ENabled Swarm Computing Evolution), seeks to establish Alabama A&M University (AAMU) as a leader in AI-enabled swarm robotics education and research. The primary goal is to build comprehensive capacity in swarm robotics by integrating research, curriculum development, and outreach. Objectives include:

• enhancing research capacity in swarm autonomy through advances in cybersecurity, communication-based swarm coordination, multi-robot collaboration, and vision-based object detection;
• expanding undergraduate and graduate curricula to include AI, machine learning, reinforcement learning, robotics programming, and swarm intelligence;
• launching K-12 outreach programs such as intensive summer boot camps to broaden early exposure for underrepresented students; and
• equipping students with advanced practical and theoretical skills to thrive in the evolving field of swarm robotics.

Intellectual Merit

The project advances the field of AI-enabled swarm robotics by addressing key challenges in trustworthy computing, communication, swarm intelligence, and computer vision. It proposes novel approaches combining reinforcement learning, formal analysis, and deep learning to improve safety, reliability, and adaptability of swarm systems in dynamic environments. By leveraging AAMU’s existing infrastructure—including a swarm unmanned systems lab and a deep learning and hyperspectral imaging lab—the project will foster groundbreaking research and innovative curriculum development. The integration of AI-driven methods into coursework and hands-on projects will provide students with critical expertise in robotics, machine learning, and cybersecurity, while faculty will expand publications, graduate-level offerings, and collaborative research. This holistic approach ensures both knowledge creation and knowledge transfer, positioning AAMU as a hub for swarm robotics research and education.

Broader Impacts

As a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) where 94% of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering students identify as African American, AAMU provides a unique and powerful context for broadening participation in AI. This project will directly benefit hundreds of underrepresented students by enriching their preparation for careers and graduate study in AI and robotics. Outreach initiatives, including summer boot camps for K-12 students and mentorship programs, will inspire the next generation and expand the pipeline into STEM. New undergraduate concentrations and graduate courses will draw a diverse talent pool and strengthen institutional capacity. The project will cultivate a workforce of technologically adept, equity-driven professionals equipped to contribute to national competitiveness in AI and robotics. By combining advanced research, curriculum expansion, and inclusive outreach, this initiative establishes a sustainable model for diversifying and advancing swarm robotics education and innovation.

Team

Publications & Posters