# Physical Computing with MIT App Inventor Workshop > [! note]- > The content of this page is generated by audio/video transcription and text transformation from the content and links of this source. Source: [https://fosdem.org/2025/schedule/event/fosdem-2025-4857-physical-computing-with-mit-app-inventor/](https://fosdem.org/2025/schedule/event/fosdem-2025-4857-physical-computing-with-mit-app-inventor/) <video src="" controls></video> ## Summary & Highlights: **Introduction to Physical Computing with MIT App Inventor** This session introduces participants to the world of physical computing using MIT App Inventor, a blocks-based programming language. The workshop aims to empower users to connect digital apps with the physical world, enabling remote control and data collection. Participants will learn to control devices like robotic dogs, monitor plants, or conduct science experiments with ease. The session is designed for teens and adults, with provisions for younger children to participate alongside a parent. **Workshop Details and Requirements** Attendees will need a laptop and an Android phone or tablet to participate. The session follows Code Club policies and health standards, requiring adult supervision for all participants. Prior experience with block languages like Scratch is beneficial but not mandatory. Registration is required, and participants are advised not to attend if unwell. **Speakers and Resources** The session is led by John Maloney and Evan Patton, and includes resources such as workshop slides and links to the MicroBlocks and MIT App Inventor websites. Participants can access additional materials like the MicroBlocks App Inventor Extension and its documentation for further learning. ## Importance for an eco-social transformation This session is significant for eco-social transformation as it empowers individuals to harness technology for practical applications, such as environmental monitoring and data collection. These skills can be pivotal for eco-social designers looking to create sustainable solutions or engage in community-driven projects. The use of open-source tools like MIT App Inventor and MicroBlocks promotes inclusivity and accessibility in technology education. Challenges include ensuring equitable access to technology and overcoming technical barriers for beginners. Political support for educational initiatives and open-source development can further enhance the impact of such workshops. ## Slides: | | | | --- | --- | | ![[FOSDEM 2025/assets/Physical-Computing-with-MIT-App-Inventor/preview_001.jpg\|300]] | The first slide introduces the concept of physical computing with MIT App Inventor, showcasing its multilingual appeal and the integration with MicroBlocks. It provides a link to a resource for further exploration. | ![[FOSDEM 2025/assets/Physical-Computing-with-MIT-App-Inventor/preview_002.jpg\|300]] | The second slide highlights the openness of the project, providing a specific file to open in Chrome or Edge browsers, emphasizing accessibility and ease of use. | ![[FOSDEM 2025/assets/Physical-Computing-with-MIT-App-Inventor/preview_003.jpg\|300]] | This slide focuses on the connection process, illustrating the steps needed to connect devices using the tools mentioned. | ![[FOSDEM 2025/assets/Physical-Computing-with-MIT-App-Inventor/preview_004.jpg\|300]] | The slide details the disconnection process, guiding users on how to safely and effectively disconnect their devices. | ![[FOSDEM 2025/assets/Physical-Computing-with-MIT-App-Inventor/preview_005.jpg\|300]] | A demonstration slide, indicating a live or recorded demonstration of the processes discussed in previous slides. | ![[FOSDEM 2025/assets/Physical-Computing-with-MIT-App-Inventor/preview_006.jpg\|300]] | This slide offers a clickable link to open a specific project in MIT App Inventor, facilitating hands-on learning. | ![[FOSDEM 2025/assets/Physical-Computing-with-MIT-App-Inventor/preview_007.jpg\|300]] | | | ![[FOSDEM 2025/assets/Physical-Computing-with-MIT-App-Inventor/preview_008.jpg\|300]] | Another demonstration slide, likely showcasing a different aspect or project within the workshop. | ![[FOSDEM 2025/assets/Physical-Computing-with-MIT-App-Inventor/preview_009.jpg\|300]] | The slide outlines the MicroBlocks process in a step-by-step format, covering connection, code editing, disconnection, testing, and repetition. | ![[FOSDEM 2025/assets/Physical-Computing-with-MIT-App-Inventor/preview_010.jpg\|300]] | This slide introduces the 'Hello Purr' project, providing specific files for use in both MicroBlocks and MIT App Inventor. | ![[FOSDEM 2025/assets/Physical-Computing-with-MIT-App-Inventor/preview_011.jpg\|300]] | The 'Starter' slide provides initial files for beginners to start their projects in both platforms. | ![[FOSDEM 2025/assets/Physical-Computing-with-MIT-App-Inventor/preview_012.jpg\|300]] | Instructions for uploading projects to App Inventor are provided, facilitating the integration of user-created content. | ![[FOSDEM 2025/assets/Physical-Computing-with-MIT-App-Inventor/preview_013.jpg\|300]] | This slide introduces the 'Message Sender' project, offering relevant files for implementation. | ![[FOSDEM 2025/assets/Physical-Computing-with-MIT-App-Inventor/preview_014.jpg\|300]] | The 'Codi Piano' slide presents files for a musical project, encouraging creative applications. | ![[FOSDEM 2025/assets/Physical-Computing-with-MIT-App-Inventor/preview_015.jpg\|300]] | This slide introduces the 'Grapher' project, with files to explore data visualization and analysis. | ![[FOSDEM 2025/assets/Physical-Computing-with-MIT-App-Inventor/preview_016.jpg\|300]] | The final slide offers resources and documentation for using MicroBlocks with MIT App Inventor, supporting continued learning. ## Links [Workshop Slides](https://fosdem.org/2025/events/attachments/fosdem-2025-4857-physical-computing-with-mit-app-inventor/slides/238577/Physical_XyKc2P4.pdf) [MicroBlocks Website](https://microblocks.fun/) [MIT App Inventor Website](http://appinventor.mit.edu/) [MicroBlocks App Inventor Extension](https://microblocks.fun/extensions/) [MicroBlocks App Inventor Extension Documentation](https://microblocks.fun/documentation/)