The need for sustainability-oriented K–12 engineering education that expands beyond the classroom and the increased accessibility of educational technologies create an opportunity for examining the affordances of educational technologies in low-stakes informal engineering education settings. In this paper, we share our experiences of using novel technologies to develop sustainability-oriented mental models in K–12 informal engineering education. Through the use of technologies including Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), Minecraft video games, Tinkercad (browser-based application for computer-aided design (CAD)), and physical computing, we have designed and tested approaches to introduce students to engineering design and engineering habits of mind with an overarching theme of developing sustainability-oriented mental models among K–12 youth in informal engineering education spaces. In this paper, we share our approaches, and lessons learned, and outline directions for future research.

In this tech demo, we will be presenting the "Smart Greenhouse" project, a transdisciplinary one, incorporating aspects of physical computing, plant science, and data literacy. In this project, students use low-cost sensors and microcontrollers (i.e., Micro:bit) to gather environmental data, with teachers guiding data analysis, visualization, and interpretation. The MakeCode platform is used for coding, which has a block-based interface, aligning with the suggestion of its efficacy in enhancing student learning and interest in coding. Furthermore, the project provides insights into environmental conditions affecting plant health, bridging the gap between computational tasks and real-world applications. For data visualization, the CODAP tool developed by the Concord Consortium is utilized, which features an easier drag-and-drop approach to create graphs. Our demonstration will encompass the collection and visualization of environmental data, coding modifications, and hands-on audience participation. Currently implemented in various educational settings, the project has witnessed teachers' growing confidence in its execution and has shown promise in bolstering students' coding skills. For this demo, participants are encouraged to bring their laptops if they wish to create or modify Micro:bit codes to test with our greenhouse setup.