Coding and Robotics with Arduino

Description

Concept by Iacopo Falciani

Do you want to understand how various devices around you work? Would you like to create a radio-controlled car or remotely control an LED?

Look no further than Arduino software!

Renowned for its innovation and user-friendliness, it is the perfect way to start learning electronics and robotics. Throughout the course, participants will explore the Arduino software and the basics of C++ coding through a blend of theoretical lessons and hands-on sessions.

No prior coding expertise is necessary, as Arduino is easy to understand and makes learning accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

By the end of the course, participants will have gained a thorough understanding of the Arduino software and C++ coding language and will be equipped with the skills to develop their own Arduino projects autonomously.

Each participant will receive their own Arduino set and all essential components to begin their own projects.

Additionally, they’ll be able to plan and design innovative educational tools.

Requirements

Suggested computer proficiency: Advanced

Learning outcomes

The course will help the participants to:

• Understand the value and importance of learning a coding language;
• Be able to write a simple program in C++ with GNU Compiler;
• Transform a physical input into a digital input and analyze it;
• Work to complete a customizable full Arduino project autonomously, from the beginning to the end;
• Understand the function of electronic sensors and components;
• Learn to build your own led circuit;
• Plan and design innovative and fun tools for education.

Tentative schedule

Day 1 – Course introduction & setting goals

Course introduction

• Introduction to the course, the school, and the external week activities;
• Icebreaker activities using drama for trust and ensemble building.

Setting goals

• Identification of needs and goals for each participant and relevant populations;
• First steps into C++;
• Where is C++ used, and what are the main differences with other coding languages;
• Coding and education;
• Presentations of the participants’ schools.

Day 2 – Learning the basics of C++ coding

• Download and install of Gnu++ compiler;
• Download and installation of the Arduino IDE;
• Learn basic C++ coding through the creation of a simple geometry program.

Day 3 – Put it to the test

• Explore the kit you have in front of you;
• Learn about Arduino board, and install all his parts;
• Introduction to electronics. Basic concepts;
• Write your first C++ program to control a button to turn led on/off;
• Other experiments with the led.

Day 4 – Experiment with sensors

• Sound and light sensors. Control digital output using physical input;
• Experiments with sensors. Program the Arduino board to see the values of the sensors on a serial monitor;
• Plan the design of an Arduino-based simple quiz game.

Day 5 – Build your quiz game

• Build the quiz game, finalize and try it.

Day 6 – Course closure and cultural activities

• Course evaluation: round-up of acquired competencies, feedback, and discussion;
• Awarding of the course Certificate of Attendance;
• Excursion and other external cultural activities.