IIT Kanpur recently hosted a five-day workshop on "Basics of Electronics and Arduino Programming" at Ranjit Singh Rozi Shiksha Kendra (RSK), IIT Kanpur. The workshop was designed to introduce rural school children to the fundamentals of Arduino programming and robotics. Under the expert guidance of Professor Sandeep Sangal from the Department of Material Science & Engineering, IITK, the students embarked on a project to build a self-driving, obstacle-avoiding car using components such as ultrasonic sensors, IR sensors, motor drivers, and Arduino boards.

The workshop consisted of five sessions and was attended by 25 enthusiastic students from five different rural schools. During these sessions, the students worked in groups to assemble their obstacle-avoiding robots. They learned to interface motor drivers with Arduino boards to achieve precise control of the robots' movements. This hands-on experience involved wiring sensors, motors, and motor drivers to the Arduino board and ensuring the correct functionality of all components.

Throughout the workshop, the students encountered various challenges typical in robotics, such as sensor calibration, motor control issues, and troubleshooting electrical connections. Professor Sangal's team provided continuous guidance and support, helping the students overcome these obstacles. The workshop was a resounding success, sparking the students' interest in learning and applying electronics in everyday life. By actively engaging in the assembly and programming of their robots, the students not only acquired technical skills but also developed teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.

The workshop highlighted the importance of hands-on learning in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education, inspiring the next generation of innovators and engineers.