This resource is a part of the Testing & Troubleshooting lesson series.
Troubleshooting is a specific form of problem solving aimed at identifying the cause of a malfunction in a system. Often the problem can be traced to a single fault, like a broken wire, a burned-out fuse, or a bad switch. Good troubleshooters are systemic in eliminating various possible explanations as they focus on the source of the problem.
Let the students test their ROVs in a body of water such as a pool, lake, or even a large 50-gallon trash can filled with water. Students should test their motors, clamping, cable connection, and circuitry. If a problem is found, encourage students to write it on their Troubleshooting Design Model Worksheet.
Once a problem (or problems) has been found, introduce students to the six steps of troubleshooting:
Students should use the Troubleshooting Design Model Worksheet to help them follow the correct approach to troubleshooting their ROV.
Once students have selected an approach to try, they should go through with the repair, and re-test their ROV. If the repair was effective, congratulate them on a successful troubleshooting. If not, remind students that it often takes several attempts to fix an issue, and encourage them to try again until they have fixed the issue.
This resource is a part of the Testing & Troubleshooting lesson plan series.
This resource is a part of the Testing & Troubleshooting lesson plan series.
This video is a part of the SeaPerch Training video series.
