In order to enhance students’ interest in engineering to improve retention, we have developed a directed study course in robotics and electronic control so that small group of sophomore engineering students can participate in experiential learning projects related to these subjects. In the first project, simple and affordable robot kits were purchased and students developed a robot and associated software that could have a controlled motion within a convex 2D space (simulating motion of a carpet cleaner robot). In the second project an affordable and portable laboratory kit for an engineering control course was developed based on the Ph.D dissertation of R. M. Reck’s at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. These laboratory projects not only have generated students’ interest in learning control systems and robotics but also created opportunity for collaboration and interaction with other students from local high schools. Supported by the VSU Innovation Grant
