Leaders and advocates of STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) take learning beyond just the academics offered in the classroom. Through TryEngineering, IEEE Volunteers are able to make STEM outreach projects a reality that reach school-aged children around the world. TryEngineering empowers educators and supports volunteers by providing STEM resources, including peer-reviewed lesson plans, at no cost. The IEEE Pre-University STEM Grant Program offers the opportunity for financial support to start, sustain, or scale selected STEM outreach projects in local communities. In 2025, 58 programs were selected as STEM grant recipients.
One of these programs was IoT Unplugged: Smart Plant Guardians using Arduino, a hands-on STEM outreach initiative designed in collaboration with the University of Toronto Student Family Housing. It introduced 10 student participants to the world of smart systems and the Internet of Things (IoT) through creative experimentation with Arduino microcontrollers. Using the ELEGOO UNO Project Super Starter Kit, students built interactive projects such as environmental monitors and automated devices. They learned how sensing, coding, and communication integrate into real-world technologies like smart homes and precision agriculture. Four volunteers from IEEE ComSoc facilitated the workshop, guiding students through wiring circuits, writing Arduino code, and debugging prototypes. Beyond technical skills, the sessions emphasized teamwork, problem-solving, and creativity. The program aimed to inspire youth to see themselves as future innovators and engineers.
After the program, TryEngineering was able to conduct an interview with the program’s leaders:
What inspired you to create your program and get involved with STEM outreach at the pre-university level?
The motivation for creating this program came from a shared passion for making STEM accessible and inspiring for young learners. Many students are surrounded by connected technologies but rarely understand how they work. This workshop aimed to bridge that gap, helping youth not only use technology but also create it. Our team wanted to spark curiosity early, show that engineering is both creative and collaborative, and build confidence in hands-on problem-solving.
How did you measure the program’s impact?
The program’s success was evident through enthusiastic participant feedback and strong community response. Students expressed excitement about bringing their code and circuits to life, and the community requested additional sessions. The workshop effectively introduced hands-on IoT concepts, built confidence in coding and circuit design, and fostered collaboration among youth. Beyond technical skills, participants demonstrated enhanced teamwork, creative problem-solving, and a deeper understanding of how digital systems connect to real-world challenges.
- All student participants successfully completed a working Arduino-based prototype.
- 90% of students reported increased interest in pursuing STEM fields.
- The community expressed strong interest, leading to requests for follow-up sessions and long-term programming.
IoT Unplugged: Smart Plant Guardians using Arduino was a recipient of the 2025 IEEE Pre-University STEM Grant Program and funded by the IEEE Communications Society (ComSoc). To learn more about TryEngineering and IEEE ComSoc’s partnership, be sure to visit the Communications Engineering Collection Page.