Page 100 - Toucpad robotics C11

RESEARCH ACTIVITY 21 st
Century #Coding & Computational Thinking
Skills
These three activities combine logic (Boolean), critical comparison (microcontroller vs SBC), and hands-on
programming (algorithm to code)—ensuring students learn theory, application, and practice.
1. Boolean Logic in Real Life and Robotics
∑ Task: Identify three real-life situations where Boolean logic (AND, OR, NOT) applies (e.g., school bell system,
traffic signals, ATM withdrawal conditions). Then, design a simple robotic decision-making scenario using
Boolean operators (like obstacle avoidance or object picking).
∑ Output: Create two truth tables—one for a real-life situation and one for the robotic scenario—and explain
the decision-making process in 1–2 pages.
∑ Learning Outcome: Understand how Boolean logic forms the foundation of both daily choices and robotic
intelligence.
2. Microcontroller vs. Single Board Computer Research
∑ Task: Compare one popular Microcontroller (like Arduino Uno) and one Single Board Computer (like
Raspberry Pi). Study their architecture, memory, I/O features, and power usage.
∑ Output: Make a comparative chart (at least 5 points each) and conclude which one is more suitable for:
§ A line-following robot
§ A self-driving toy car
∑ Learning Outcome: Learn how computing choices impact robot performance, cost, and complexity.
3. Algorithm Flowchart Code (Hands-On Mini Project)
∑ Task: Select a simple robotic task—like controlling an LED, following a line, or avoiding an obstacle. Write:
§ Algorithm (step-by-step instructions)
§ Flowchart (using standard symbols)
§ Pseudocode
§ (Optional hands-on) Write the actual code in Arduino C or Python and test it if resources are available.
∑ Output: A three-stage documentation (Algorithm–Flowchart–Pseudocode) with screenshots
or photos if code is executed.
∑ Learning Outcome: Gain structured thinking—from logic design to actual programming—mirroring
how real robotics engineers’ work.

AT A GLANCE
Boolean algebra, developed by George Boole, is a branch of mathematics dealing with variables that can
only have two possible states: True (1) or False (0).
A Microcontroller is essentially a small, compact computer chip designed to perform specific control tasks.
A Single Board Computer is a complete computer built on a single circuit board.
An Algorithm is a detailed, step-by-step procedure or a set of rules for solving a specific problem or
accomplishing a specific task.
A Flowchart is a graphical or diagrammatic representation of an algorithm or a process.
A robot’s hardware provides its body, senses, and processing power, but it’s the software or program that
gives it life and intelligence.
Debugging is the process of identifying, analysing, and removing errors or “bugs” from a computer program
or electronic hardware.

98
Touchpad Robotics - XI