By Soham NandiReviewed by Lily Ramsey, LLMApr 2 2025In an article published in the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) News, the authors discussed the SeaPerch program, launched by MIT Sea Grant. This innovative educational initiative introduces students to underwater robotics, engineering, and marine science.
Through hands-on projects, learners in grades 5–12 build remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), gaining skills in fabrication, electronics, and problem-solving.
The newer SeaPerch II expands on this foundation by incorporating advanced robotics, climate science, and modular learning tools. With global competitions and real-world challenges, SeaPerch fosters creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking, preparing young minds to tackle future environmental and technological challenges.
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Background
The SeaPerch underwater robotics program began in 2003 as an MIT Sea Grant initiative to engage students in ocean science and engineering.
Designed as a low-cost, hands-on project, it teaches fundamental science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) concepts through the construction of a simple yet functional ROV made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes, motors, and basic electronics.
Over the years, SeaPerch has grown into an international movement, with competitions encouraging students to solve real-world problems like deep-sea exploration and environmental monitoring.
In 2021, MIT Sea Grant introduced SeaPerch II, an enhanced version incorporating modern robotics, sensors, and climate science applications. Unlike its predecessor, SeaPerch II includes modular components—such as pressure sensors, autonomous control systems, and soft robotic grippers—allowing for customizable learning experiences.
The program remains accessible, using affordable hardware store materials while introducing more advanced concepts like coding and automation.
The Educational Impact of SeaPerch
SeaPerch’s strength lies in its hands-on, experiential learning approach. Students not only assemble their robots but also engage with core engineering principles—buoyancy, structural stability, circuitry, and propulsion.
By troubleshooting real-world challenges, such as waterproofing electronics or optimizing motor placement, they develop problem-solving skills that extend beyond the classroom.
Andrew Bennett, MIT Sea Grant’s education administrator, emphasizes that SeaPerch has had a "tremendous impact" on ocean science education.
The program’s global competitions further enhance learning by presenting students with complex tasks, such as simulating deep-sea mining operations or collecting hydrothermal vent data. These challenges mimic real scientific work, fostering creativity and teamwork.
Teagan Sullivan, an MIT mechanical engineering student who helped develop SeaPerch II, has witnessed its impact firsthand while mentoring younger students.
She notes that the program encourages collaboration and critical thinking, teaching participants that engineering is about iterative improvement. She points out how SeaPerch II challenges the way people think, highlighting its role in shaping future innovators.
Innovations in SeaPerch II
SeaPerch II builds on the original model by integrating cutting-edge technologies while maintaining accessibility. Its modular design allows educators to tailor projects to different skill levels. Key features include:
- Sensor Modules: Students can incorporate pressure and temperature sensors, enabling real-time data collection for environmental studies.
- Autonomy Features: A closed-loop control system lets learners program their ROVs to maintain depth automatically, introducing basic robotics and coding.
- Soft Robotics: Flexible grippers and bump sensors tangibly demonstrate emerging technologies.
Unlike commercial robotics kits, SeaPerch II emphasizes maker skills—cutting, soldering, and assembling components from raw materials. Diane Brancazio highlights this as a crucial learning aspect, as students understand engineering at a fundamental level.
MIT undergraduates like Sullivan have played a key role in refining SeaPerch II, ensuring its designs are both functional and student-friendly.
Future updates may include salinity sensors, fluorometers, and land-water communication systems, further expanding its educational applications.
Conclusion
In conclusion, SeaPerch is more than a robotics program—it’s a gateway to STEM discovery.
Blending hands-on building with real-world challenges inspires students to explore engineering, marine science, and environmental stewardship.
SeaPerch II’s advancements ensure that the program remains relevant in an era of rapid technological change, equipping young learners with the skills to address future global issues.
Journal Reference
Wilson, A. (2025, March). SeaPerch: A robot with a mission. MIT News | Massachusetts Institute of Technology. https://news.mit.edu/2025/seaperch-robot-with-a-mission-0320. https://robonation.org/programs/seaperch/
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