The Judges Committee has awarded this submission Excellence in digital animation and/or graphic design. 

PROJECT SUMMARY

What would the world look like if militaries started using robot soldiers like the Terminators to fight wars for them? One of the most hotly debated topics is whether governments and corporations should invest in robot soldiers. I did a research project about that discusses the costs and benefits of robot soldiers, expressed through an engaging video that combines research with entertainment . 

WHY?

The question "What are the costs and benefits of human progress?" is very important in the consideration for decisions the world takes. The impact of advancing technology shapes the future of our world, just like in science fiction. In particular, robot soldiers may totally reshape warfare and lead to more functions for robots in our lifestyles, which is why it is essential to investigate about them before taking action. 

HOW?

I begun my project by writing an essential question and conducting research. That was all synthesized into a graphic design planner which served as a useful outline for my video. Next, I designed my video by putting visuals and music combined with text to create the ultimate video documentary for business presentation. After a lot of tiresome editing, I finally presented my project to a group of simulated investors, and connected robot soldiers to Paraguay's situation.

WHAT?

I collected qualitative data to obtain results. Observations showed that the investors were really entertained by the video presentation and expressed high levels of interest in robot soldiers. Many thought that robot advantages over human soldiers were so beneficial that they should be implemented in the near future. However, results found that our technology is not advanced enough for the extremely hazardous flexibility downsides of robotic soldiers to be eliminated. Therefore robot soldiers should not replace human soldiers but be used as a support, non-lethal role to prevent any failures and accidents or the world would probably end up like the apocalyptic robot-destroyed world in the videogame franchise Horizon Zero Dawn. 

SO WHAT?

The results are indispensable because they have the power to influence the path mankind takes to create their future. I concluded that perhaps only in the distant future when AI is better developed and has a moral sense can we safely start using robot soldiers; now we should just stick with the remote controlled ones. I learned that progress should not come to fast; it should be done slowly and carefully so the world can adapt in time and smooth out any potential mistakes. 

WHAT'S NEXT?

I could extend my project by creating a 3D model of the ultimate robot soldier. I could've made a story about robotic soldiers. I can improve my project by adding more text and making the scene transitions smoother. The next steps are presenting my research to organizations. 

Link to the video:

REFERENCES & ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

JUDGES FEEDBACK

EXCELLENT! Man vs machine is long debated topic and with the advances in AI, the line between pros and cons is getting smaller and smaller. Your graphical designed posters about the benefits and costs of robotic soldiers were professionally done. Your analysis of whether PY should consider robot soldiers was well researched and the conclusion supported by the evidence you provided. Incredible job on the video! This topic is so nuanced. For you next step, consider the cost of human life vs robots? Would soverign nations be more willing to fight if human lives were not at stake?