The Edu-Mat project (Project Number: 2023-1-IT02-KA220-SCH-000157934) has been co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA).

Automazione industriale

Institution
Istituto Tecnico “L. da Vinci”
Institution Typology
School
Country
Italy
Website
https://www.steamitalia.it/progetto-automazione-industriale-istituto-tecnico-l-da-vinci-di-ancona/
Stakeholders involved
Students, teachers, industrial sector companies, automation experts
Summary
The project introduced students to industrial automation systems through the use of PLCs and collaborative robots, providing them with practical skills in the field of automation and robotics.

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVES

Problem addressed or learning needs
Cognitive: Acquisition of theoretical knowledge about automation systems and PLC programming

Metacognitive: Development of the ability to reflect on the learning process and the solutions adopted

Collaborative: Teamwork in designing and implementing automated systems
Types of enhanced competences
Programming skills

Design of automated systems

Use of collaborative robots

Problem-solving and teamwork

METHODS, STRATEGIES AND TOOLS

Subjects involved
Technologies\Engineering
Duration and timeline of implementation
The project was carried out over the course of a school year, with weekly sessions dedicated to both theoretical and practical activities.
Strategies and activities
Phase 1: Theoretical introduction to automation systems and PLCs

Phase 2: Hands-on labs for programming and using collaborative robots

Phase 3: Design and construction of a complete automated system

Phase 4: Project presentations and final evaluations
Material Sources
PLCs, collaborative robots, programming software, materials for constructing automated systems
Methodology
Team Work, Cooperative Learning, Learning By Doing

IMPACT AND RESULTS

Impact
Number of Students Involved: 50 students

Number of Teachers Involved: 5 teachers

Number of Schools Involved: 1 school
Observed Benefits
Acquisition of practical skills in industrial automation

Improved problem-solving and teamwork abilities

Better preparation for Industry 4.0 challenges
Challenges Faced
Time constraints for completing the projects

Need for continuous updates to equipment and software

LESSONS LEARNT AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Key Success Factors
Effective integration of theory and practice

Collaboration with industry experts

Use of advanced technologies
Future Improvements
Expansion of the project to other schools

Regular updates of equipment and software

Involvement of local companies for internships and apprenticeships
Recommendations
Promote collaboration between schools and industry

Invest in continuous training for both teachers and students

Develop interdisciplinary projects that integrate diverse skill sets