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Flood-related disasters and uncontrolled water level variations continue to pose significant risks, particularly in rural and flood prone communities where access to early warning technologies is limited. This study presents the development and educational implementation of Aqua Sensor, a smart robotic water level monitoring system designed to provide an early flood warning while simultaneously enhancing STEM learning outcomes through a Project Based Learning (PBL) framework. The Aqua Sensor system was developed using an Arduino Uno microcontroller integrated with a water level sensor, light emitting diodes (LEDs) and an audio alert module. The device operates based on predefined water level thresholds that activate a three-stage warning system: green (safe), yellow (alert) and red (danger). A portable power supply enables continuous operation for up to one week, subject to environmental conditions. The design prioritises simplicity, affordability and adaptability, making it suitable for deployment in rural settings as well as for educational use. Methodologically, this study employed a STEM integrated PBL approach involving Level 2 pupils (primary school), combining concepts from robotics, electronics, programming, measurement and scientific reasoning. Pupils’ learning and project effectiveness were evaluated using structured observation checklists, oral assessments, written responses, technical sketches and functional testing of the prototype. These instruments provided evidence of pupils’ conceptual understanding, practical skills and ability to apply interdisciplinary knowledge to solve real world problems. The findings indicate that pupils successfully demonstrated mastery of basic robotic system components, programming logic, accurate measurement techniques and technical documentation. In addition to technical competencies, the project fostered higher order thinking skills, collaboration, communication, creativity and civic awareness. Functionally, Aqua Sensor proved effective in detecting water level changes and delivering timely visual and audio alerts. In conclusion, the Aqua Sensor project demonstrates that STEM oriented PBL can effectively bridge classroom learning with real world applications. The innovation shows strong potential for further development as a low cost flood monitoring solution and as a scalable educational model that promotes meaningful, socially relevant STEM learning.

Keywords: Aqua Sensor, STEM Project-Based Learning, robotics education, water-level monitoring, flood warning system.