Presentation
SIGN IN TO VIEW THIS PRESENTATION Sign In
From Soil to Software: Experience from a STEM Workshop on Smart Plant Care and Teachable Machines
DescriptionIn this paper, we present our work on developing a sensor-based device capable of large-scale environmental data collection. We also outline how we integrated this technology into a STEM education workshop for high school students. Conducted over three consecutive days as part of the Toledo EXCEL program, the workshop aimed to introduce students to foundational computing concepts, including data acquisition, machine learning, and artificial intelligence through accessible, hands-on activities. Participants used custom-built IoT sensor system in conjunction with visual programming tools like MakeCode to create a smart plant care assistant. They also explored basic machine learning by training classifiers using Teachable Machine. We describe both the technical development of the sensor device and its role in engaging students with real-world computing applications. Finally, we outline our plans to enhance future workshops with advanced topics such as parallel computing and real-time data visualization dashboards.
