ABSTRACT VIEW
INTEGRATION OF ELECTRONICS AND MICROCONTROLLERS IN STEM EDUCATION: A PROJECT-BASED APPROACH
A. Kimura Junior, K.C. Tavares de Freitas, E. Alves dos Santos Neto, E. Barbosa Caldeira
Universidade do Estado do Amazonas - UEA (BRAZIL)
This article explores the integration of electronics and microcontrollers within the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education model in a digital fabrication laboratory. The adopted approach combines theory and practice through courses and projects, ranging from basic electronics principles to advanced prototyping techniques. Activities are designed to develop technical and creative skills while fostering collaboration among participants. Projects conducted in partnership with technology startups allow students to apply acquired knowledge in real-world scenarios, promoting direct connections to the job market and encouraging entrepreneurship. The digital fabrication environment facilitates knowledge exchange and collective learning, challenging students to solve problems using technological tools. The methodology incorporates structured theoretical lessons, supervised practice, and the development of real-world projects, providing students with opportunities to test and apply concepts in concrete contexts. The results indicate significant advancements in technical skills, such as microcontroller programming and efficient printed circuit board (PCB) design. The Ocean Digital Fabrication Laboratory has experienced remarkable growth, with over 1,421 participants certified since 2021. Surveys revealed that 58.3% of students perceived moderate impacts on their career progression, while 19.4% reported significant contributions. Furthermore, 63.9% of participants noted improvements in teamwork skills. Partnerships with startups highlighted the strategic role of the laboratory in prototype development and innovation, strengthening technical learning and practical application in real-world scenarios. The laboratory experience demonstrates that project-based learning enhances the comprehension and application of knowledge, preparing students to face future challenges.

Keywords: STEM Education, Digital Fabrication, Electronics, Microcontrollers.

Event: INTED2025
Session: STEM+C Education
Session time: Monday, 3rd of March from 12:30 to 13:45
Session type: ORAL