An activity-based sensor networks course for undergraduates with sun spot devices

Wireless sensor networks are revolutionizing the instrumentation of the physical world, across scientific, industrial and military applications. In this paper, we describe our efforts developing and classroom-testing hands-on materials for use in undergraduateaccessible courses on sensor networks. In Winter 2008 at Portland State University, we introduced an in-class laboratory component to a sensor networks course that had previously been entirely lecture-based. For the laboratory exercises, we utilized Sun’s Java-programmable Sun SPOT [7] sensor network technology. We found the Sun SPOT based laboratory activities to be quite powerful as a teaching and excitement-fostering tool. Categories and Subject Descriptors C.3 [Special-Purpose and Application-Based Systems]: Real Time and Embedded systems, Microprocessor/Microcomputer Applications, Signal Processing Systems; C.2.1 [Network Architecture and Design]: Wireless Communication; K.3.2 [Computer and Information Science Education]: ...

• Type: Conference
• Year: 2009
• Where: SIGCSE
• Authors: Damon Tyman, Nirupama Bulusu, Jens Mache
• Keywords: Sensor Networks, SIGCSE 2009, Sun Spots, Wireless Sensor Networks