Level C and Level D Lessons

The Level C and D lessons build on the electronics and coding skills you learned in Levels A and B. In Level C you will add complex electrical components (including audio-visual elements) to your projects and move on to advanced-level Python coding. In Level D you will take all your electronics and coding skills and build a programmable, mobile robot.

• Expand project flexibility with networking and remote access
• Write Bash scripts and using Bash programming
• Work with servo motors to add movement to projects
• Multiple methods for gathering data from internet feeds and databases including API data access as well as how to use data in projects
• Work with accelerometers and gyros to allow for multi-axis measurements in projects
• Use relays to control high-powered devices
• Create your own Graphical User Interface (GUI) using the popular module Tkinter to create a user-friendly interface for programs and display data
• Build a web server using popular server softwares like Bottle and Apache to add web page control to projects
• Use a camera to gather data and see real-time events
• Learn to protect and recover operating files and project data
• Use a digital multimeter (included in kit)
• Construct the robot chassis including wheels, motor mounts, and motors
• Control the robot remotely via VNC
• Add and configure various sensors, an audio amplifier, and speaker on the robot
• Use a camera to collect information and see the world from the robot's point of view
• Set up the mobile power system including gaining understanding of benefits and drawbacks of various battery power options
• Learn to drive and troubleshoot motors through code including coordinating multiple motors
• Set up keyboard control of robot while accounting for focus, keypress, and repeat rate issues
• Build a webpage and use CGI scripts to control the robot remotely
• Use a web page to view video generated by the robot and trigger the robot to play audio files
• Continue to improve troubleshooting skills for both electrical circuits and computer programs
• Continue to gain the skills to independently tackle advanced projects found online
• Gain the skills to systematically plan large projects including identifying needed functionality, part compatibility, and keep appropriate documentation

Curious to see a lesson in action? Click here to view sample videos, activity instructions, and a complete scope and sequence for the course.

To complete the Level C and D lessons, you will need to purchase this course along with previously purchasing and completing the Level A and B lessons. You will need both the skills and equipment from Levels A and B along with:

• A Desktop Computer, Laptop, or Chromebook (this can be the same device used to access the online classroom; in Level C this is used in networking lessons)
  
• Anti-Static Mat (highly recommended to prevent damage to more sensitive equipment such as the Raspberry Pi camera; Amazon typically has an option available for under $25)
• AA Batteries x6 (these are used to power the robot in Level D; we recommend rechargeable batteries)
• 9v Battery
• USB Drive (minimum 4 gb)
• Electrical Tape (used in Level D to build a track on the floor for the robot to follow; use black electrical tape if you have light colored flooring, use white electrical tape if you have dark colored flooring)
• USB to SD Card Adapter (optional; Lesson D-1 activity shows students how to back up their SD card to their computers)

In addition to the items above, you will need the same items you have on hand from working through Levels A and B:

• Levels A and B Lessons and Component Kits
• Internet access and an Electronic Device to Use to Access the Online Classroom (course lessons, including videos, are provided via the online classroom so high speed internet access is needed; we do not recommend attempting to use the online classroom with a phone due to the small screen size)
• Computer Monitor (a television can also be used provided it has HDMI inputs, please note, a laptop computer will not work for this purpose)
• HDMI Cable (likely attached to your computer monitor)
• AA Batteries x2 (these are used in Lessons A-1 to A-9 to power circuits prior to learning to use the Raspberry Pi)
• Keyboard and Mouse (please use a USB wired keyboard and mouse if possible. Wireless models do not work reliably with the Raspberry Pi. We suggest purchasing the least costly wired USB mouse and keyboard set available--there is typically an option available on Amazon for $15-$20)

There are 18 lessons in each level:

• Level C: 90-120 minutes per lesson
• Level D: 90-120 minutes per lesson

We recommend aiming to complete 1-2 lessons per week. A single level will take 9-18 weeks to complete depending on lesson frequency.

We are thrilled to help! Contact us via email and we will help you get back on the right track.

Yes! The Raspberry Pi operating system tends to change fairly regularly. Sometimes the changes are minor, such as moving a menu item, and sometimes the changes are major, such as process changes. As we learn of changes to the Raspberry Pi OS, modules, repository libraries or any other resources used in the course, we will update the online classroom ASAP. When accessing the materials through the online classroom, you will always have access to the most up-to-date version of the lesson materials.