STEM Lab

STEM
Lab

STEM Projects to
Ignite Young Innovators

StemLab is an innovative educational robotics program that bridges the critical gap between classroom learning and real-world technology applications. Aligned with the CHIPS and Science Act’s workforce development goals, StemLab provides students with hands-on experience using ESP32 microcontrollers, servo motors, and IoT sensors through a comprehensive curriculum of 10 progressive projects.

The program operates on a collaborative learning model where students work in pairs using kits, making advanced technology education accessible while building essential skills in microcontroller programming, robotics, and Internet of Things development.

The StemLab curriculum, hosted at themicrolab.org, features practical projects that progress from basic LED control and sensor reading to advanced applications like obstacle-avoiding robots, environmental monitoring systems, and wireless device control.

Each project builds upon previous knowledge, starting with fundamental concepts like GPIO pins and analog-to-digital conversion, then advancing to motor control, servo positioning, and digital sensor communication. The capstone projects integrate multiple technologies, teaching students to create sophisticated systems like soil moisture monitors and web-controlled relay systems, preparing them for immediate entry into the growing technology workforce while fostering innovation and problem-solving skills essential for 21st-century careers.

LED Control and Blinking Patterns

In this project, students learn how to control one or more LEDs using an ESP32 microcontroller and MicroPython. They’ll experiment with turning LEDs on and off, controlling multiple LEDs in patterns, and adjusting blinking speeds. This introduces key concepts in hardware control, timing, and logic.

Light Intensity Monitor with Web Dashboard

This project explores reading analog input by measuring light intensity using a photoresistor. Students will learn about Analog-to-Digital Converters (ADC) and how to interpret analog data in MicroPython.

Measuring Distance with an Ultrasonic Sensor

This project introduces students to the use of an HC-SR04 ultrasonic distance sensor with an ESP32 microcontroller. By measuring the time it takes for ultrasonic waves to bounce back from an object, the ESP32 calculates the distance. This data is displayed on the serial monitor and can optionally be shown on an OLED screen or web interface.

Controlling a DC Motor with a Motor Driver

This project teaches students how to control a servo motor using the ESP32 microcontroller and MicroPython. Students will learn how PWM signals correspond to angular movements and how to control the servo to move to specific angles. This is commonly used in robotic arms, steering mechanisms, and automated systems.

Controlling a Servo Motor

This project teaches students how to control a servo motor using the ESP32 microcontroller and MicroPython. Students will learn how PWM signals correspond to angular movements and how to control the servo to move to specific angles. This is commonly used in robotic arms, steering mechanisms, and automated systems.

Reading Temperature and Humidity with DHT11

This project teaches students how to measure temperature and humidity using the DHT11 sensor and an ESP32 microcontroller. Students will learn how to read sensor data and display it in the serial monitor, OLED, or web dashboard, introducing basic data collection and real-world IoT applications.

Basic Obstacle Avoidance Robot

This project guides students through building a simple robot that avoids obstacles using an ultrasonic sensor and two DC motors controlled by an L298N motor driver. The ESP32 microcontroller acts as the robot’s brain, detecting obstacles and adjusting movement accordingly.

Measuring Motor Speed

This project helps students measure the speed of a DC motor using a basic optical encoder or a Hall effect sensor with a magnet. Students will collect data on motor revolutions and calculate the speed in RPM using the ESP32 and MicroPython. This lays the foundation for closed-loop control and robotic feedback systems.

Soil Moisture Monitoring

This project introduces students to the basics of soil moisture detection using an analog sensor with an ESP32. The data is read, interpreted as moisture percentage, and can be displayed on an OLED or web dashboard. Students can enhance the system to trigger watering when the soil gets too dry.

Controlling a Relay via a Web Interface

This project teaches students how to build a light intensity monitoring system using an ESP32 microcontroller, a photoresistor, and an OLED screen. A built-in web dashboard visualizes real-time light data using Chart.js. It demonstrates how environmental sensors and web interfaces can be combined for data monitoring and analysis.