Arduino Programming 2024/3 – PPD Pekan (AI Assisted)

Synopsis on AI Assisted Learning @UMPSA STEM Lab module.

UMPSA STEM Lab Pioneering AI-Assisted Learning in Arduino Programming

The UMPSA STEM Lab at Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) is at the forefront of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into education. Their innovative approach to teaching Arduino programming, focusing on digital making through circuit construction and physical computing, is reshaping how students learn and engage with technology. This blog post outlines the structured activities, from Act 1 to Act 6, that UMPSA STEM Lab uses to achieve its educational goals.

The primary aim of this AI-assisted learning initiative is to enhance school teachers’ understanding of digital making and physical computing. By incorporating AI tools such as ChatGPT, students receive personalized assistance and real-time feedback, making the learning process more interactive and effective.

Starting with Act 1, participants generate code to blink an LED using GenAI, laying the groundwork for understanding basic programming. In Act 2, they debug and complete a traffic light system code, polishing their troubleshooting skills with AI support. Act 3 introduces photoresistors, where students use AI to research and generate code for reading sensor values. Act 4 builds on this by modifying code to control an LED based on light levels, teaching conditional programming. The curriculum culminates in Act 6 with ultrasonic sensors, where students generate, comprehend, and implement AI-assisted code to measure distances and control outputs. This progression ensures that students not only learn to code but also to innovate and troubleshoot effectively using AI tools like ChatGPT.

The approach taken by UMPSA STEM Lab in incorporating AI-assisted learning into Arduino programming is not just innovative but also highly effective. By breaking down the learning process into structured activities, students gain a thorough understanding of digital making and physical computing. The integration of AI tools like ChatGPT ensures that students receive personalized assistance, making the learning experience more engaging and successful.

As AI continues to evolve, the possibilities for its integration into education are endless. The UMPSA STEM Lab’s approach is an example to how AI can revolutionize learning, and it sets a benchmark for other institutions to follow. With continued innovation and adaptation, AI-assisted learning can lead to a new era of education where students are more empowered and prepared for the technological challenges of the future.