During the month of January, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) students Anushka Nair and Farrah Ye were welcomed to Robert Gordon’s College as part of the MIT Global Teaching Lab programme. With expertise in Computing Science, Artificial Intelligence, Sustainability, Marine Robotics, and Music Tech, Anushka and Farrah worked with pupils throughout Junior and Senior school. In addition to teaching within classroom settings, Anushka and Farrah participated in co-curricular clubs across the junior and senior school and shared expertise to support new RGC Online modules.

Anushka is in her final year of a Masters of Engineering degree in Computing Science at MIT, with a strong focus on AI applications -  much of her work has been in identifying misinformation and applying AI technologies for societal change. With work experience within the United Nations, Tesla and Oracle, Anushka has a truly outstanding reach of experience. In addition to her academic and professional experience, Anushka is the President of MIT & Harvard Women in AI and has been selected as one of MIT’s 2025 Rhodes Scholars. 

Farrah is in her third year of a Bachelors of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, minoring in Architecture and Environmental Engineering. Farrah focuses much of her work on sustainability and has worked with numerous robotics laboratories fabricating and implementing biotechnology principles and techniques. Farrah has mentored a Science Club for Girls and directed the Aragon Robotics team alongside her studies. Alongside her leadership and extra-curricular activities, Farrah worked on the SeaGrant SeaPerch II and has strong design engineering skills.

Anushka's teaching focused primarily on Computing Science, where she worked with S1 and S2 pupils to explore AI applications in machine learning and vision systems. She also led discussions on the ethical use of AI, addressing issues like deep fakes and misinformation. In addition, Anushka worked with P7 pupils to introduce AI technology and debating, helping them develop their understanding of AI and how the technology is built. Through dynamic and engaging lessons, she inspired the class to form opinions, argue persuasively, and collaborate effectively.

Mr Hay, Head of Computing Science, explained: “It really is a pleasure to have someone who embodies what we want to inspire in our pupils. Anushka was able to give real world applications of contemporary topics including Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. She was able to talk about the different experiences that were open to her through her study of Computing and engaged with the pupils in a really accessible and captivating way.”

In their introduction to debating, a new topic for our P7 pupils, Anushka allowed the class to form opinions, make their arguments and negotiate with other peer groups.  Anushka’s dynamic and commanding presence in class allowed for energetic and inspiring lessons that brought current topics to pupils attention in a thought provoking and energised way.

Drummond L, P7, shared:  “Anushka taught me you should always persevere.” 

Farrah divided her time between Technology, Geography, and Physics, blending her expertise in robotics and sustainability to help students create innovative ideas and understand the relationship between theory and practical design engineering. During P6 Ideate classes, Farrah introduced the engineering design process, guiding students through each stage - from inspiration to prototyping and testing - culminating in a final pitch of their designs. Her approachable and insightful lessons empowered pupils to solve problems creatively and practically.  

Daniel C, P6, said: “My favourite part of Farrah’s lessons were designing and making a chair out of clay.  Learning from Farrah has made me think about becoming an engineer and designing things when I grow up, like Farrah does.”

Anushka and Farrah's dynamic and commanding presence in their classes allowed for energetic and inspiring lessons that brought current topics to pupils attention in a thought provoking and energised way.  Working together to deliver P4 science lessons and assemblies to our S1-3 pupils, the reach of knowledge and expertise that both Anushka and Farrah shared with the school has left a lasting impression with many pupils.  

In addition to their core curriculum classes, Anushka and Farrah enjoyed spending time across a multitude of co-curricular classes including Lego League, Green Beans, Wired Electronics Club, CREST, Powering Futures and music sessions including Concert Band and Infant Glee rehearsals.  Farrah also thoroughly enjoyed a taste of Scotland during the S1 Burns Supper in the Thomas Mackie Dining Hall.

This year marks 9 years of RGC’s partnership with MIT and continues to offer pupils unique opportunities to expand their thinking, challenge their perspectives, and engage in transformative learning experiences. The 2025 MIT GTL students have made a lasting impression on pupils, encouraging them to develop critical thinking and creative curiosity that will benefit them for the future.