Robotics for all

However, since robots are expensive, this activity is normally limited to elite schools or the ones with a big budget.

“I make robotics courses affordable and this is done together with coding,” says Koh.

This is possible with the use of the Arduino circuit board, the brain behind many electronic devices and robots.

Arduino is an open-source platform used for building electronics projects, consisting of both a physical programmable circuit board (often referred to as a microcontroller) and a piece of software, or IDE (Integrated Development Environment) that runs on a computer.

The Arduino platform has become quite popular with those just starting out in electronics, and for good reason.

Unlike most previous programmable circuit boards, the Arduino does not need a separate piece of hardware called a programmer to load code onto the board — one can simply use a USB cable.

“The advantage of Arduino is its affordable price. One can get a circuit board at RM30,” says Koh.

“I want to move beyondrobotics by integrating robotics and programming with lessons on masteringthe Arduino circuit board.

“Once students know how to programme the Arduino circuit board and the sensors, they can basically do anything.”

“My-Bengkel is a ‘funducational’ (fun and educational) basic DIY series developed for beginners who have no prior knowledge of science, technology, innovation and robotics.” The workshop uses the CERIA (Coding, Electronic, Robotic, Innovation and Automation) modules.

“They introduce students to the basic construction of an electronic circuit using simple electronic components and programming.

“All this knowledge is not confined to the school but can also be applied in our daily life.” Koh hopes to promote interest in robotics among the young.