Low-cost desktop learning factory to support the teaching of artificial intelligence

Abstract

The following document details low-cost hardware and open-source available software tools that can be combined to support active teaching methodologies like Problem-Based Learning (PBL) and incorporate work-oriented technological skills in students. This proposal presents a prototype of Open Educational Resources (OER) that integrates software and hardware tools for the specific purpose of facilitating instruction in Artificial Intelligence. The hardware consists of affordable electronic devices, including an Arduino board, servo motors, sensors, a relay and a motor, all integrated into a scaled conveyor belt. On the other hand, open software was used to implement an image classification program with different features (shape, color, size, among others). The exact construction steps, circuits, and code are presented in detail and should encourage other scientists to replicate the experimental setup, especially if they are looking for experimental teaching of artificial intelligence, since the system allows object classification using the machine learning paradigm to facilitate the teaching of artificial intelligence concepts with computer vision concepts.