Developed by the Science Museum of Western Virginia, this educator outline is intended to assist in guiding middle school-aged students through various activities using the Rokit Smart robot kit. The Rokit Smart utilizes Arduino, a widely-used open-source environment for programming that enables users to create interactive electronic objects.  Designed through modules, the activities can be grouped to fit after-school, summer camp, or other student enrichment needs.  

Sensors are part of most modern day technologies. They are integrated into our vehicles, appliances, buildings, and phones. Touch sensors trigger doors to open, motion sensors detect moving vehicles or pedestrians, and heat sensors supply an extra level of safety to our stoves. Sensors are integral to how we interact with technology and are becoming more common in the systems around us.In this lesson, students will explore some of the sensors used in transportation. They will make their own touch sensor and program a sign to display a message or warning when their sensor is triggered.