VECA 9th-grade scholars Kevin Ashley, Alex Betz, Sarika Rahman, and Alana Wilcox participated in a series of learning experiences with Dr. Shantanu Chakraborty, Assistant Professor of Physics at Valdosta State University. The scholars learned how to build a proximity sensor using a pair of infrared (IR) light-emitting diodes (LEDs). While one IR emitter LED sends an IR wave, the IR receiver LED detects any reflected wave from an object at close proximity. Any detection of the reflected wave was recorded by a microcontroller which the scholars specifically programmed to document such events using the Arduino software and digital devices. Using regular LEDs, scholars used similar techniques to build a photosensor (light sensor).
After weekly visits to VSU’s Nevins Hall with Dr. Chakraborty from October to December 2022, the scholars presented their knowledge gained through the learning experience to their fellow 9th-grade peers, VECA faculty and staff, and VSU College of Science and Mathematics professors. After the presentation, the visitors had an opportunity to interact with the programmed digital devices.
VECA sincerely thanks Dr. Chakraborty and the VSU College of Science & Mathematics for an incredible learning experience!
