Development of Educational Marine Soft Robotics STEM Platform as New Iteration of SeaPerch K-12 National Outreach Program

In the past thirty years, educational programs like the Massachusetts Institute of Technology/Office of Naval Research's SeaPerch have been effective at introducing students to robotics, science and engineering concepts through low-cost, hands-on curricula [1], [2]. These programs have been integral in preparing students to pursue degrees and careers in STEM that meet the needs of a 21st century global economy [3]. In order to address rapid technological growth and our dynamic digital climate, such vital STEM educational opportunities must continuously evolve to provide students the tools necessary for meaningful engagement within a future global workforce. First developed at MIT Sea Grant three decades ago, the SeaPerch program was a novel approach at hands-on project based learning with a STEM curriculum for K-12 audiences. Students built their own remotely operated vehicle (ROV) unit with low-budget materials and learned about concepts such as buoyancy and circuits while being given the opportunity to compete in design challenges that built off the base SeaPerch unit [4]. Returning to the roots of the program, MIT Sea Grant is again investing in the fundamental ideas behind SeaPerch by developing SeaPerch II in order to keep up with emerging and even since-established advances in technology. We found soft robotics and Arduino microcontrollers to be the most suitable areas of focus which further increase exposure to STEM topics at the K-12 level. The redesign will include the implementation of tiers in the curriculum, which will help cater to different ages and experience levels. SeaPerch II will emphasize the iterative model of design engineering with opportunities for students to take creative direction by exploring these universal and utile technologies. SeaPerch II will bridge the gap between the previous educational modules of SeaPerch and advances in emerging technologies. Introducing innovative science to students at an earlier age in an accessible, low-cost manner will increase the diversity of STEM programs and will reinforce interest and awareness in pursuing careers in STEM. SeaPerch II serves to inspire the next generation as well as contribute to the decentralization of robotic systems and their dissemination into the public domain.