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Smart Farming
AI in Hydroponics and Vertical Farming
Get ready to dive into the future of farming! Our Smart Farming Program is tailor-made for high school students interested in exploring the cutting-edge world of hydroponics and vertical farming.
1
Hands-on Experience
Learn by doing with practical workshops and projects.
2
Expert Instructors
Get guidance from industry professionals and experienced educators.
3
Innovative Techniques
Discover the latest advancements in hydroponics and vertical farming.
Weekly Breakdown
1
Learn the fundamentals of smart farming and hydroponics, including the importance of urban farming and environmental justice.
2
Dive deeper into how AI and IoT sensors can optimize hydroponics systems for increased yield and efficiency.
3
Learn advanced data analysis techniques to monitor plant health and make informed decisions for your smart farm.
4
Learn the business side of hydroponic farming, including developing comprehensive business plans and financial projections.
5
Understand how automation and robotics can streamline hydroponics operations, from seeding to harvesting.
6
Put your skills to the test as you design and build your own smart farm system, then visit a real hydroponics facility.
7
Refine your system, harvest your crops, and showcase your smart farming expertise in the final project presentation.
8
You will deliver your final project presentations, receive feedback from peers and experts, and reflect on your learning journey, culminating in a closing ceremony to celebrate your achievements.
Week 1: Introduction to Smart Farming and Hydroponics
1
Types of Hydroponic Systems
Learn about the different types of hydroponic systems and their advantages.
2
Setting Up Your Own System
Get step-by-step guidance on how to set up your own hydroponic system.
3
Cutting-edge Technologies
Discover the latest technologies used in modern agriculture and sustainable farming.
4
Practical Experience
Gain hands-on experience in setting up and maintaining a hydroponic system.
Session 1: Overview and Hands-On Introduction
Smart Farming Overview
How are smart farming technologies transforming agriculture? Join us for the first hour of our program to find out!
Introduction to Hydroponics
Experience the future of farming with hydroponics for the second hour. Explore the game-changing benefits of this revolutionary soil-free approach.
Hands-On Experience
Get your hands dirty and set up your own basic hydroponic system with the help of our expert guidance in the third hour!
Session 2: Continuation and Group Discussions
Hydroponic System Setup
In the first hour, we'll reveal the secrets to getting the most out of your hydroponic setup, so you can sit back and watch your plants thrive like never before.
Group Discussions
In the second hour, we'll discuss our hydroponics experiences as a group. Whether beginner or expert, everyone can share insights and ask questions. Together, we'll troubleshoot common issues like leaks, lighting, and nutrients.
Recap and Q&A
In the final hour, we'll dive deeper into smart farming and hydroponics. Get ready for an interactive recap to equip you with the knowledge to take your farming to the next level. We'll also answer your burning questions!
Week 2: AI and IoT in Hydroponics
A Solid Understanding of AI and IoT Applications in Agriculture
Hands-on Experience Installing and Configuring IoT Devices in a Hydroponic System
Session 1: Introduction to AI and IoT in Agriculture
Artificial Intelligence in Agriculture
Unlock the power of AI for your farm - from smart crop management to disease prediction, yield estimation, and resource optimization. Transform your agricultural journey with cutting-edge technology.
IoT in Agriculture
Enter a new era of agriculture with IoT devices that enable real-time monitoring and control of your processes. From improved resource utilization to enhanced crop management, let IoT take your farming to the next level.
IoT Devices in Hydroponics
Harness the power of IoT to take your growing game to the next level. With temperature, humidity, light, pH, and EC sensors, as well as water pumps, you have everything you need to optimize plant growth and maximize yields.
IoT Configuration
Unlock the full potential of your IoT devices with our expert setup and configuration services. From programming microcontrollers to reading sensor data to controlling essential equipment, we ensure smooth operations and optimal performance.
Group Discussions
Share your experiences and challenges from the setup process. We'll also cover common issues like sensor calibration, connectivity, and programming bugs, and provide troubleshooting advice.
Key Concept Review
Discover the power of AI and IoT in hydroponics. From optimizing nutrient delivery to automating plant monitoring, we'll break down the key ideas to help you thrive in the world of smart farming.
Session 2: Introduction to Growing Microgreens
Discover the world of microgreens - the nutritional powerhouses of the plant kingdom. Learn the fundamentals of growing these tiny, flavorful greens and unlock the secrets to cultivating a thriving indoor microgreen garden.
What are Microgreens?
Microgreens are young, nutrient-dense edible plants that add vibrant color and flavor to dishes.
Growing Conditions
Microgreens thrive in the right light, temperature, and moisture - we'll cover the optimal conditions.
Planting Microgreens
Learn the essential supplies and proper seeding and watering techniques for growing microgreens.
Maintaining Microgreens
Discover the right watering schedule, lighting, and record-keeping to ensure healthy microgreen growth.
Growing Microgreens: Step-by-Step
Introduction
This guide will walk you through the process of growing your own microgreens. You'll learn about plant biology and sustainable farming techniques. By the end, you'll have grown and harvested your own microgreens!
What You'll Learn
Through this hands-on activity, you'll gain practical experience in plant care and apply key concepts in smart farming. You'll be able to use these skills for future gardening projects and explore more advanced topics like hydroponics.
Day 1: Prepare and Plant
  • Prepare: Gather the materials (container, coco coir, seeds, water).
  • Plant: Moisten the coco coir, spread the seeds evenly, and add more water.
  • Cover: Put the lid on the container and place it in a warm, dark spot for 2 days.
Day 3: Expose to Light
  • Uncover: Remove the lid to expose the sprouted seeds to light.
  • Water: Add 3-5 tablespoons of water to keep the soil moist.
  • Place: Put the container in a sunny spot, like a windowsill.
  • Water Daily: Continue watering with 3-5 tablespoons of water each day.
Days 4-6: Maintain
  • Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not saturated.
  • Light: Ensure the plants get plenty of indirect or a few hours of direct light.
Day 7: Observe
  • Do Not Harvest: Bring the growing plants to class for observation.
Days 8-10: Harvest
  • Harvest: The microgreens should be ready to harvest between days 8-10.
  • Technique: Use scissors or a knife to cut the greens just above the soil level.
Tips for Success
  • Light: Provide moderate, indirect light for the full growing period.
  • Temperature: Maintain temperatures between 65-75°F for optimal growth.
  • Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during germination.
Troubleshooting
  • Germination Issues: Check soil moisture and temperature if seeds don't germinate.
  • White Growth: White growth in the soil is likely healthy root hairs.
Microgreens Planting Log
Instructions
Date:
Write the date for each day of the activity.
Steps Completed:
Complete your daily plant care routine by watering, adjusting light, and closely monitoring growth.
Observations:
Keep a close eye on your microgreens and take note of any changes in sprouting, growth rate, color, and any signs of mold or pests.
Microgreens Planting Log
Week 3: AI and Data Analysis
AI Algorithms and Techniques for Optimizing Hydroponic Systems
The Basics of Growing Microgreens
Session 2: Basics of AI and Data Analysis Techniques
Introduction to AI Algorithms
Step into the future of agriculture with AI as your guide. Dive deep into the world of machine learning and deep learning, and witness how these cutting-edge technologies are reshaping the landscape of farming.
Types of Agricultural Data
Uncover the hidden insights within farming data. Explore the intricate relationship between environmental conditions, crop growth, and nutrient levels, and harness this knowledge to maximize your agricultural success.
Data Analysis Tools
Navigate the world of data analysis with confidence using tools like Excel and Python libraries. Dive into real-world scenarios and learn how to transform raw data into actionable insights that propel your business forward.
Week 4: Introduction to Business Aspects and Final Presentations
1
Develop Business Plans
Gain knowledge and skills in developing effective business plans for hydroponic farming.
2
Perform Market Analysis
Learn how to conduct market analysis to identify target markets and assess competition.
3
Prepare for Final Project Presentations
Get ready to showcase your comprehensive business plan in the final project presentations.
Business Models in Hydroponics
Explore successful strategies like direct sales, wholesale, subscriptions, and agritourism to grow your hydroponic farm.
Crafting Your Business Plan
Learn to create revenue forecasts, expense budgets, and profitability analyses to support your hydroponic farm strategy.
Personalized Support
We'll provide templates, examples, and one-on-one guidance to help you refine your business plan for the final presentations.
Finalizing Your Business Plan
Dive Deeper into the Plan
Dive deeper into the specifics of each business plan section, using templates and examples to help develop a comprehensive plan.
Peer Review and Refinement
Present your draft business plan to your peers, who will provide feedback and advice to help refine your business model and financial projections.
Summarize and Next Steps
Summarize the key takeaways, address any questions, and discuss the next steps for finalizing your business plan and preparing for the presentations.
Week 5: Automation, Robotics, and Vertical Farming
1
Explore Automation Technologies
Learn about the latest automation technologies and how they are applied in agriculture.
2
Set Up and Manage Vertical Farming Systems
Gain practical experience in setting up and managing vertical farming systems.
3
Integrate Automated Systems
Understand how to integrate automated systems for optimized growth in vertical farming.
4
Understand the Role of Automation
Learn about the importance and impact of automation and robotics in agriculture.
5
Monitor and Adjust Growing Conditions
Develop skills in monitoring and adjusting growing conditions for optimal plant growth.
Session 1: Understanding and Using Automation and Robots (3 Hours)
Overview of Automation in Farming
Automation makes farming more efficient, cheaper, and precise. However, setting up automation can be expensive and requires new skills. The future will bring even more changes with AI and smart sensors.
Introduction to Farming Robots
Robots can handle tasks like planting, harvesting, and monitoring crops, saving labor and increasing production. Examples include self-driving tractors, fruit pickers, and agricultural drones.
Vertical Farming
Vertical farming uses space efficiently, allows year-round growing, and requires fewer resources. Setting up a vertical farm requires metal racks, hydroponics, lights, sensors, and automation for lighting, watering, and nutrient delivery.
Monitoring Plant Growth
Regularly inspect plants visually, use data logging sensors, and analyze growth data to track plant health and development.
Adjusting Growing Conditions
Analyze sensor data to identify patterns, detect issues, and make hands-on adjustments to lighting, climate, and nutrient delivery.
Troubleshooting Challenges
Address common issues like uneven light, over- or under-watering, and nutrient imbalances to optimize vertical farm performance.
Week 6: Project Development and Farm Tour
1
Plan and Develop
Get hands-on experience in planning and developing smart farming projects.
2
Observe and Compare
Visit a local farm and observe and compare traditional and smart farming practices.
3
Detailed Project Plans
Develop detailed smart farming project plans based on your observations and insights.
4
Practical Insights
Gain practical insights from comparing traditional and smart farming methods during the farm tour.
Session 1: Project Planning and Development
Brainstorming Ideas
Participate in idea generation sessions to come up with innovative smart farming project ideas. Evaluate the feasibility and impact of each idea, then select a project topic.
Developing a Detailed Project Plan
Create a timeline with specific phases and tasks. Identify the resources required, assign tasks to team members, and develop project documentation like a charter and risk management plan.
Planning a Smart Farming Project
Thorough planning is key for a successful smart farming project. You'll learn the essential components of a project plan, including goals, objectives, scope, and deliverables.
Session 2: Farm Tour and Reflection
Preparing for the Tour
In the first hour, we'll learn about the local farm, including its history, size, and farming practices. We'll also discuss what to observe during the tour and prepare questions to ask.
Observing Smart Farming
The second hour will be the farm tour itself. We'll observe both traditional farming techniques as well as the farm's use of smart technologies like automated irrigation and AI monitoring. We'll compare the pros and cons of each approach.
Reflecting on Insights
In the final hour, we'll have a group discussion to share our observations and insights from the tour. We'll identify key lessons from both traditional and smart farming, and discuss how to apply these learnings to our own smart farming projects.
Week 7: System Refinement, Harvest, and Final Testing
1
Refine Hydroponic Systems
Improve and fine-tune your hydroponic setups for optimal performance.
2
Harvest Microgreens
Learn the proper techniques for harvesting and using microgreens in your culinary creations.
3
Conduct Efficiency Tests
Evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of your hydroponic systems through testing and analysis.
Harvesting and Using Microgreens
Harvesting Microgreens
Learn the proper tools and techniques for harvesting microgreens. We'll cover the best time to harvest for optimal flavor and nutrition, as well as the right cutting methods to maximize yield and minimize damage.
Preparing Microgreens
Discover how to wash, dry, and store your harvested microgreens to keep them fresh. We'll also discuss the nutritional benefits of microgreens and explore recipes for incorporating them into meals, such as salads, smoothies, and garnishes.
Cooking with Microgreens
In this hands-on cooking session, you'll have the opportunity to prepare simple recipes using your harvested microgreens. We'll guide you through the process and encourage you to taste your creations and share your experiences with the group.
System Assessment and Refinement
Evaluating the Hydroponic System
Measure plant growth, health, and yield to assess system performance. Review data and closely examine system components for issues.
Hands-on System Refinement
Identify and fix common problems like nutrient deficiencies, pH imbalances, and equipment failures. Optimize water circulation, light distribution, and nutrient delivery.
Troubleshooting and Final Testing
Discuss and solve problems, get hands-on guidance. Evaluate overall system performance and collect final data on plant growth, health, and yield.
Final Project Presentations
1
Smart Farming
Demonstrate your understanding of the latest trends and technologies in agriculture.
2
Hydroponics
Showcase your knowledge of water-based growing systems and how they can be used to grow food more efficiently.
3
AI Integration
Highlight the ways in which artificial intelligence can be used to improve farming practices and increase yields.
4
Business Planning
Explain how you plan to monetize your ideas and create a successful agricultural business.
Session 1: Preparing for the Final Presentation
Presentation Structure and Content
We'll review the key parts of a successful project presentation, including an introduction, project overview, methodology, results, and conclusion.
Crafting the Narrative
We'll help you create a compelling story that showcases your smart farming project, its goals, and the insights you gained.
Visual Aids
We'll provide guidance on making visually appealing and informative slides or other visuals to support your presentation.
Presentation Rehearsal
We'll encourage you to practice your presentations and get feedback from your peers.
Public Speaking Techniques
We'll offer tips and exercises to help you build confidence and use effective body language, eye contact, and vocal delivery to engage the audience.
Presentation Feedback and Peer Review
We'll facilitate a process where you provide constructive feedback on each other's presentations and guide you on how to use the feedback to refine your work.
Presentation Polishing
We'll assist you in finalizing the content and structure of your presentations, ensuring a clear and coherent flow.
Presentation Logistics
We'll ensure you are familiar with the presentation equipment and can set up your materials seamlessly, and discuss contingency plans in case of technical issues.
1
Presentation Time
It's time to showcase your smart farming journey! Present your project to the group and receive valuable feedback to reflect on your learning. Demonstrate your understanding of smart farming while gaining public speaking experience.
2
Feedback and Evaluation
Prepare to showcase your smart farming journey! Present your project and receive valuable feedback to refine your understanding and public speaking skills. Engage with peers and instructors to strengthen your work.
3
Closing and Celebration
Join us for the closing celebration of the smart farming program! Recap the key takeaways, recognize your achievements, and connect with fellow participants. It's a chance to reflect on your journey and look ahead.