Unlocking the Arduino: Prototyping Essentials

Build machines that actually move by combining Arduino with other items in your home makerspace! Home makerspaces include things like craft supplies, recyclables, and building toys such as interlocking bricks, magnetic building systems, and friction-fit building toys. We actively work together to build complex projects that come to life before your eyes. 

This class is intended for students who have some experience writing Arduino projects that use either a button or a dial to control an LED. This class explores the interconnected parts of machine design as we create complex projects like:
- Electronic dice
- A safe box with an alarm
- A working elevator 
- An operating garage door
- An interactive memory game with blinking lights and LCD display
Our projects will use circuit components like resistors, LEDs, sensors, buzzers, buttons, potentiometers, motors, servos, H-bridges, and LCD displays. These components can be found in most Arduino starter kits. Additionally, students would be well-served by bringing an assortment of makerspace items that they can use to bring their prototypes to life.

Our class time is an active problem solving environment that uses design thinking. I will model "Comment first" coding and documenting design decisions on the Zoom whiteboard. Students will gain experience using a design approach to electromechanical projects as we identify goals, brainstorm strategies, build prototypes, and experiment together. While all classes begin with a safe box with an alarm, students may also suggest other projects that use the Arduino and makerspace items.

If your learner is new to working with the Arduino, I strongly advise that they start with either BLINK! An Introduction to Programming with Arduino or Unlocking the Arduino: Foundations of Programming.