WHEN:
We will be running this class on April 30, May 7, 14 as a 3 part series.
This in-person course is an Introduction to Arduino Electronics. The course is optimized for grades 5+, and adults are welcome, too. You'll learn the basics, build your first project, and so much more in a few short lessons.
Students will be loaned a basic kit of necessary components (Arduino Starter Kit, value $39.99, included in class) in order to get started. Yes, if you complete all three classes, you KEEP the kit at the end of the course.
We will introduce you to one of the most dynamic areas in the Maker’s world – micro-controllers. These little machines can do amazing things, and are adding new capabilities as the basic building blocks get more power over time. One of the popular microcontroller platforms is ‘Arduino’. In this course, you’ll learn the basics of coding and electronics, using simple “recipes” in each lesson to see the results fast. Each lesson shows you a new concept you can master and builds your skills, so you’ll be ready to tackle more advanced concepts later.
This instructor-led class will give an introduction to the necessary tools, concepts, processes, and mindset, and show you how to create working circuits - even if you have never coded or done electronics before.
Your instructor will be Max Leach, a college student who attended NEST as a young student and now volunteers here at NEST. Your backup instructor will be Greg Paul, KC1MND. He is a local Master Builder and Kinetic Sculptor formerly with the David Lang Studios in Natick, now with New England Sci-Tech (NEST).
Three Week 1.5-hr Sessions, 3 Thursday evenings, APR 30, May 7, 14, for Grade 4 through 9, Members FREE. At the conclusion of the 3 sessions, students may KEEP the Arduino kit, if they would like to.
COURSE STRUCTURE
The introductory series consists of three 1.5-hr instructor-led class meetings, in person in Natick, which will be an introduction to the concepts and techniques only.
TOPICS COVERED
- Lesson 1a: What You'll Learn
This lesson contains a detailed list of everything you need to complete this class, and shows you how to set up the Arduino software.
- Lesson 1b: Your First Experiments
Learn how to use a solderless breadboard and wire/code up your first few LED-controlling circuits! This lesson covers the basics of the Arduino software/hardware workflow.
- Lesson 2: Input/Output
Now that you've got the basics, let's add some interactivity and learn about inputs! This lesson walks you through using pushbuttons, the serial monitor, analog inputs with a potentiometer, and using small motors.
- Lesson 3: Skills Infusion & Going Further
This lesson shows you how to solder, use code libraries and control addressable LEDs, write your own code functions.
COURSE PREREQUISITES
- Optional but recommended demonstrated ability to solder safely
- The student must be able to listen and follow safety instructions at all times
- Students need an Internet-connected laptop or Chromebook with external keyboard, such as Microsoft Surface or iPad with Keyboard cover, in order to install the necessary software and coding interface.
Please be aware of our Cancellation and Refund Policies. For questions, e-mail info@nescitech.org or call 508-720-4179.