Demo Abstract: Distributed virtual CPS environment for K12

Abstract

While educational robotics and makerspaces are useful to modern STEM education, they introduce both physical and economic barriers to entry. By creating a simulated, networked environment, we can facilitate instruction on cyber-physical systems and related topics while reducing cost and complexity. The virtual environment created is connected to a block-based programming language, NetsBlox, to allow students to engage with the curriculum regardless of programming experience. The networked simulation and collaborative programming environment combine to become especially effective for distance learning. This demonstration showcases example scenarios providing students with a simple interface to interact with a simplified sensor network in a small area of a smart city and solve robot challenges.