Portable, inclusive, and affordable electronics laboratories: promoting diversity and overcoming barriers in engineering education

Abstract

This paper presents a novel set of low-cost, hands-on electronics experiments specifically designed to address diversity and inclusion challenges in engineering education, particularly in peripheral and under-resourced regions. Developed with portability and accessibility as primary objectives, these experiments not only foster practical learning experiences among students from diverse backgrounds but also support extension projects that bridge universities and local communities. By integrating readily available technologies such as LEDs and multimeters, the setups minimise the need for expensive equipment such as oscilloscopes, while their independence from personal computers ensures suitability for developing regions. Moreover, these experiments have proven effective in overcoming language barriers and engaging multilingual classrooms, further extending their reach to underrepresented populations—including women, minority communities, and students from disadvantaged contexts. Positive feedback and successful implementation in diverse settings underscore the potential of this approach to advance the support of underrepresented groups, leveraging technology for inclusive development, and enriching STEM education worldwide