Innovative Educational Tool: A 4-Axis Robotic Arm for STEM Learning Enhancement

A significant proportion of Malaysian students have insufficient exposure to robotics, which impedes their understanding of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), especially engineering subjects. The emphasis on theoretical knowledge in the conventional curriculum renders students ill-prepared for real-world application. According to recent data, student absenteeism has significantly increased, especially during critical exams such as SPM. This indicates a drop in academic participation and engagement, particularly in theoretical learning. To bridge the gap between STEM theory and real-world application, this project presents a 4-axis robotic arm with the goal of promoting automation education in Malaysia. Students can develop their interest in STEM fields and improve their STEM skills by building and programming actual robotic devices. Moreover, students can gain practical, interactive experience building, programming, and operating robotics through this project. The project used SolidWorks and mechanical engineering concepts to create a prototype for learning tools while acquiring an educational robotic arm. The project prototype was created, manufactured, and put together to guarantee both operational effectiveness and educational value. The framework offers a complete educational robot arm that integrates programming and mechanical engineering.