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Physical Computing - Arduino

 

 

What is an Arduino?

An Arduino is a Micro-controller or mini computer that is programmed with the Arduino programming language. Students can program these physical machines to work with sensors (such as light or temperature sensors) and actuators (such as motors, lights and buzzers) to create solutions to real world problems. A simple way to look at an Arduino is a circuit board with "smarts".

Why would I use Arduino Micro-controllers. in the Classroom?

Working with Arduinos requires students to draw on multiple skills. When programming, students will develop their computational thinking skills. When designing and connecting the physical components of the board students will need to develop scientific knowledge of electricity and circuits. Because the projects and products students can develop are almost limitless, Arduinos can add value to almost any curriculum area, but due to the combination of both coding and circuitry knowledge, their application would best suit students in stages 3 and up.

Curriculum Connections

In addition to coding, computational thinking and working with electricity outcomes, the flexible nature of Arduinos means they can have application across the curriculum. Create a smart farm in Agriculture or Science, construct an interactive stage or stop motion set in English or Drama, add a smart or computerised component to projects in Design and Technology.

There are many resources available to help you get started with Arduino Micro-controllers. One of the best local sites is the Innovation Toolbox created by Intel. Internationally, take a look at Sparkfun and investigate their Arduino experiment guide for many ideas and tutorials.

Tips & Tricks in the ET4L (Typical School) environment

You will require a device running either Mac OSX or Windows to program and connect with an Arduino. However your students can use any device with an internet browser (including tablet devices) to write and tinker with their Arduino code using 'Create', Arduino's online coding environment. There are some tips and tricks to loading the Arduino programming environment in the NSW eT4L environment. An eT4L installation guide will be coming soon!

Device Compatibility:

You will require Mac OSX or Windows to program your Arduino.

 

 

Stage Suggestion: 3 through 6

Links to Future Focused Learning

Arduinos support several of the future learning themes. As a prototyping tool it enables the experiential classroom. Used in a group setting, they support collaboration, and with many self guided resources they are also applicable in a guided or independent mode of learning. Student coding an Arduino LED light show with a computer

Stories from Schools

There are many schools across New South Wales, Australia and the world that have embraced Arduino technology to integrate coding, problem solving and computational thinking across their curriculum. Dan Rytmeister, the design and technology curriculum advisor has developed an Arduino program that integrates seamlessly with the design and technology curriculum. It assumes no prior knowledge and provides step by step instructions.

Types of Arduinos

There is a large range of Arduino Micro-controllers on the market, many serving unique purposes. The most common standard Arduino is the Arduino Uno. The Uno is simple and easy to connect, but lacks a few features of later models. One model to consider would be the Genuino 101, it contains the added features of Bluetooth connectivity, accelerometers and gyroscopes, expanding the device to be able to complete more in depth experiments and Internet of Things projects. Arduino microcontroller and peripherals including a breadboard and some coloured jumper wires

Safety considerations

When using any technology in the classroom please make sure you:

  • Read/comply with all manufacturer’s instructions for safe use
  • Observe and comply with age range recommendations
  • Consult your school's WHS representative
  • Consult the Equipment Safety in Schools (ESIS) register to check for implementation advice

For further information contact the T4L team: T4LNews@det.nsw.edu.au

NSW DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION - INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTORATE