Basic Microcontroller Programming and Digitization in the Vocational Courses

Basic programming of microcontroller-based systems. Algorithmic thinking. Simple sensor and actuator circuits that can be connected to the microcontroller. Wireless connectivity in microcontroller-based sensor nodes, as a foundation for setting up a simple Internet of Things system (IoT system).

The students are enabled to create their own teaching plans based on vocational didactic principles and the curriculum goals in K-20.

We also take a closer look at examples from the "maker" culture, and use microcontroller technology to create engaging and exciting teaching programs.

Current digital tools to produce innovative learning content. and to facilitate more student-active learning and in-depth learning.

Knowledge

The student must understand:

• the basic elements of a programming languagethe difference between programming microcontrollers and a computer.
• basic and some specialized constructs in the Arduino C programming language, which has become one of the most preferred languages ​​for learning microcontroller programming.
• the structure of a microcontroller.
• some of the typical components we often find in sensor and electronic circuits that are often connected to the microcontroller, and the interaction between the microcontroller and these circuits
• the basic elements of an IoT solution and how they work together
• the time in a project from problem formulation to prototype and working product, including an example of a relevant development platform

Skills

The student must be able to:

• build, program, debug and test simple microcontroller-based sensor nodes that form part of an IoT system with wireless connectivity between the layers it consists of
• use simulation tools, for example Tinkercad Circuits, in the development process

General competence

The student must:

• be able to communicate and discuss IoT-related technology on a basic level related to current issues within the various professions
• be able to acquire new knowledge and build further competence, particularly in microcontroller programming, sensors and IoT solutions
• be able to convey the subject's main themes in a way that supports in-depth learning in the students' own teaching
• have a good platform to learn other programming languages

Project work in groups. Student-active forms of learning in combination with lectures. Guest lectures. Lab exercises and exercises.

The course is online-based with a number of digital gathering days. The teaching elements will be student activities and practically oriented with several smaller projects along the way, and a larger overall project with report submission and presentation of the results at the end of the semester. A lot of group work is planned both during and between the gatherings, with close follow-up from teachers and learning assistants. There will be regular mandatory work requirements (exercises) with guidance.