Seventy fourth- through sixth-grade students from Tuscaloosa County attended the inaugural Code-N-Sensor Future Lab camp at The University of Alabama, where they participated in a week of hands-on activities focused on physiological computing. The camp was hosted by Dr. Chris Crawford, associate professor in the Department of Computer Science, in partnership with College of Education faculty members Dr. Feiya Luo, assistant professor of instructional technology, and Dr. Amy Hutchison, Fayard Endowed Chair in Literacy Education.
The weeklong camp allowed students to experience physiological expressions and design for the first time while using Neuroblock, a software platform created for beginner-level brain-computer interface applications.
“Most camps introduce students to traditional programs such as controlling a robot or game with a mouse, keyboard or controller,” Crawford said. “This is the first camp that allows students not only to experience their idea of brain- or muscle-computer interfacing but also the ability to create their own custom applications.”
The camp was inspired by Crawford’s outreach initiatives dating back to 2019, which demonstrated that physiological sensing technologies significantly enhance student engagement in STEM education.
VEX Robotics served as a collaborator for the camp, providing robotic systems that allowed Crawford to integrate the company’s robot with Neuroblock.
Beginner groups used Makey Makey kits in hands-on activities to investigate electrical conductivity by transforming bananas into functioning computer piano keys. The lesson introduced essential principles of circuitry and sensor technology, which students applied by creating custom input devices.
Participants further developed critical thinking and programming skills through designing mazes for Ozobots. This exercise introduced foundational programming concepts, including sequencing, pattern recognition, logical reasoning and debugging.
“The goal of this camp is to have students leave with a great sense of inspiration and curiosity about what they can do with technology,” Crawford said. “If this camp starts with the idea that students can move things with their brain and muscles, kids leave the camp and want to do more of it.”
The week concluded with competitive robot races in which students applied physiological sensing concepts by controlling robots through muscle signals.
Jason McKenna, vice president of global educational strategy for VEX Robotics, praised Crawford’s leadership during the camp, emphasizing the program’s innovative use of cutting-edge technology.
“This is truly groundbreaking stuff,” McKenna said. “The creativity of it all is amazing; thinking of using muscle energy to be able to teach computer science and math concepts. Crawford’s students will have a huge impact going forward.”
Following the success of this year’s camp, organizers are planning to host the Code-N-Sensor Future Lab again next year. Crawford and his collaborators will continue their partnership with VEX Robotics to further enhance the camp experience and support future STEM education initiatives.