In class this week, we have been learning how to use Arduino, which is a simple physical computing software. We worked in groups of 4 to play around in importing the code using an "intro to Arduino" guide and kit. During class time, we were able to get a small DC motor running, an LCD screen that said "hello, world," different variations of LEDs, a buzzer, and a RGB LED that changed color depending on where we pressed on a pressure sensor (see this one in the photo below). I had never worked with Arduino before and thought that the activity was really fascinating. Though our boards were pretty big and hooked to a laptop, they make Arduino boards that run off batteries and are quite small and can hook up to bluetooth so they can be used to transmit information remotely. Arduino has been used for all sorts of projects, ranging from controlling the temperature and watering in a greenhouse (http://www.instructables.com/id/Backyard-Automated-Greenhouse/) to creating a biking jacket that has turn signals lit up on the back (http://www.instructables.com/id/turn-signal-biking-jacket/). There are lots of fascinating and helpful possibilities!

Our SparkFun Red Board and Bread Board programmed to change color depending on where the pressure sensor is pressed.