Using the NXT as an educational tool in computer science classes

Abstract

Introducing real-world representations of fundamental concepts in computer science can drastically increase interest levels of students over standard lecture-based teaching. Therefore, the primary focus of the project was to develop an interactive educational platform centered on physical depictions of abstract concepts. A custom application was built to control Lego Mindstorms NXT robots or drones. The application sends instructions to the drones and watches them complete the tasks in real time using RoboRealm. In addition to developing the project as an educational tool, scalability and modularity were maintained at all times. This allows for such a project to be adapted and used in a multitude of fields. The concept of an autonomous mapping system that uses unmanned robots and implements machine learning can be put to use in fields such as geological surveying, search and rescue, and military applications.