Over the past three weeks, our BTE1522 class transitioned into full project-based learning mode, where students were tasked to apply all they have learned throughout the semester—from Python programming basics to hardware interfacing with the Raspberry Pi 4. This phase was not just about completing an assignment—it was about creating functional, working solutions from scratch.
Each group (consisting of three students) was equipped with:
-
-
-
A UMPSA STEM Cube
-
Raspberry Pi 4
-
Camera Module
-
GPS Sensor
-
BME280 (temperature, humidity, pressure)
-
MPU6050 (accelerometer and gyroscope)
-
-
Students selected one topic from a set of project assignments, all of which required multidisciplinary skills. Each project had to include the following components:
-
-
-
Sensor Integration: Establish working connections between Raspberry Pi and the sensors.
-
Data Storage: Build a working database—either local (e.g., SQLite) or cloud-based (e.g., Firebase, Google Sheets).
-
Dashboard Development: Create a working user interface/dashboard using tools like Streamlit, Flask, Adafruit IO, or Blynk to visualize data and system status.
-
-
The Learning Process
This phase was entirely project-based, meaning students were expected to learn through experimentation, debugging, and problem-solving. Unlike guided tutorials, this process encouraged independent learning and collaboration:
-
-
-
Debugging wiring errors
-
Fixing Python runtime bugs
-
Reading sensor data accurately
-
Sending and retrieving data from a database
-
Building interactive visual dashboards
-
-
Learning programming—especially physical computing—is most effective when you’re actually doing it. The moment something doesn’t work, and you have to troubleshoot, is when you truly begin to understand what you’re building. the most important thing is NOT TO GIVE UP 🙂
This project based learning phase is aimed at solidifying concepts from earlier weeks, including:
-
-
-
Python functions and loops
-
Conditional logic
-
File and data handling
-
Sensor reading and real-time feedback
-
REST APIs and interface design
-
-
Final Submission Checklist
As the project phase concludes, students are required to submit their work via KALAM. Each group should prepare:
-
-
-
A complete lab report
-
A 3-minute walkthrough video, demonstrating the system and explaining their code
-
A zip folder with all Python source code files
-
-
This final submission will serve not only as a record of their accomplishment but also as a mini portfolio piece showcasing their ability to develop real-world solutions.
Each team faced unique challenges, but everyone succeeded in developing a working prototype with analytics. This hands-on, integrative experience truly brings the course’s learning outcomes to life.
Looking forward to your final presentations and submission in KALAM next week. Great job, everyone—keep building and keep learning!