Build an Air Quality Monitoring Rover

Part I – Build an Air Quality Monitoring Rover 

Thursday, October 19, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. / Registration

Location: Thode Makerspace

A hands-on workshop that introduces students to low-cost air quality monitoring and data mapping.

As low-cost hardware becomes readily available and continues to improve, these devices have the potential for broadened awareness and engagement, particularly for activists seeking to empower environmental justice communities. Students will build an air quality monitoring rover using an Arduino, particulate (dust) sensor, a temperature and humidity sensors and an LCD display. Students will learn the basics about Arduino, assembling code, powering the mobile device and all of its components, and mounting the hardware on a creatively re-purposed remote-controlled toy truck.

Part II – Citizen Science Air Quality Sensing Rover Walk & Data Mapping 

Friday October 20 / 1:30 – 3 p.m.

Location: Meet at Sherman Centre (Mills Library 110) at 1 p.m.

After we complete the rovers we will take them for a ‘walk’ to collect data at predetermined locations. We will record our observations and then map the data for comparison readings depending on the location. These ‘augmented toys-with-a-purpose’ tend to attract attention on the street, therefore, the opportunity for public dialogue and engagement becomes a likely and welcomed occurrence.

Lead: Maria Michails