I’m part of the Computer Science Department at Newports Institute (link removed by moderator), and we are exploring ways to incorporate Arduino into our computer science curriculum to provide students with practical, hands-on learning experiences.
Has anyone used Arduino for teaching concepts like embedded systems, IoT, or robotics in a classroom setting? We’re interested in project ideas, best practices, and tips on how to introduce students to these topics using Arduino. Any recommendations on resources or projects would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance for your insights!
The Arduino is mostly a hobbyist microcontroller and this is mostly a hobbyist forum so you should probably look-into what other colleges & universities are doing.
That said, the Arduino, as a hobbyist-oriented microcontroller, might be perfect for computer science students who aren't expected to know a lot of electronics.
IMO - it would be a good idea to include SOME basic electronics as part of the curriculum or as a prerequisite. If you were studying microcontrollers as part of an Electronics Engineering program, microcontrollers would probably come in the 3rd or 4th year.
...All of the firmware/embedded systems programmers I've known started-out as electronics engineers.
Without knowing your budget, your students' budget, lab space or particular goals when you say "hands on" (just trying out a few things with Arduino? Actually prototyping devices on a physical breadboard?) I would say the best place to start would be Wokwi.
Arduino is all about teaching STEM. Where I live, curriculum is delivered for grade 6 (elementary school) and 10 (secondary school) students. Many colleges and universities have developed their own curriculum in engineering studies.
Two issues you should consider before defining projects:
A starter kit is advantageous. Who would purchase this (the school or the student)?
What computer would be used? Software (needed to write and upload programs) needs to be installed.
A starter kit contains a controller (an Arduino board), some sensors and some basic components. Once a project is identified, extra components would need to be purchased.
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