Module 10: Lessons 1-4 - Intelligent Transportation Systems - Smart Work Zone

This learning module, from the National Center for Autonomous Technologies (NCAT), provides four lessons on Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) for high school students. Lesson one explores the need for intelligent transportation technology and connected vehicles within work zones on the roadway. Lesson two explores the LilyPad ProtoSnap Development Board and the Arduino coding language. Lesson three explores the usage of ITS systems and connected vehicle sensors to alert drivers to upcoming work zone areas and the presence of highway personnel. Lesson four highlights how ITS technologies in a work zone could improve safety for both the driver as well as highway workers. Learning outcomes include the following:

• Students will create a simple sensor using the Makey Makey circuit board which will be used to simulate a Dynamic Message Sign.
• Students will then learn how to connect and program the Makey Makey circuit board to allow the sensor to interact with oncoming traffic.
• Students will use a free internet-based programming software called Scratch to program a sensor. Scratch is compatible with the Makey Makey circuit board.
• Students will learn how to add sound clips to their Scratch program to create an interactive sensor.