Script: As remote sensing scientists, you’ve been learning a lot about how sensors help us to understand the world and universe around us. But did you know that sensors can be used to make everyday tasks easier? In the past few decades, the idea of “smart” objects and places has really taken off! Here in Ingenia, we use smart technology to open doors, play music, track our activity, and more! Do you use any smart technology in your life? (wait for student response) Today, the Remote Sensing Lab is beginning the process to develop some new smart objects and we could use your help! To start, let’s learn more about existing smart technologies.
10 min Watch: Select about 10 minutes of this video to watch with students.
5 min Discuss:
Students will brainstorm, plan, and build a model of a smart object of their own imagination.
5 min Script: Sensors help us learn about all kinds of things in the world around us. They can even make normal objects smarter and more useful! Today, you’ll imagine your own smart object, draw a plan for what it would do, and then construct a model of it using craft and recycled materials or online using Computer Assisted Design (CAD). Your smart object needs to use at least one sensor.
5 min Lead a discussion to support brainstorming:
60 min Dismiss students to brainstorm, draw a plan, and then create a model of their smart object.
10 min Have students turn and talk using the following questions:
5 min Watch: History of Cellphones and How Drastically They’ve Changed (https://www.businessinsider.com/sai)
10 min Discuss & Debate:
Have students find at least 3 smart technologies in their neighborhood or home. Have students record the technology they found, what sensor/s it relies upon, and how it makes life easier for people.
