Dustin Freimuth¹, Xuqiang Xu², Jana Zaumseil², Silvia Janietz¹, Amitabh Banerji^1,

Organic Electrochemical Transistors (OECTs) represent a cutting-edge technology with significant potential in healthcare, electronics, and environmental monitoring. This manuscript presents the development of a low-cost, hands-on OECT experiment designed for highschool education, bridging the gap between advanced research and classroom learning. The didactically tailored OECT prototype replaces complex fabrication methods with accessible materials, such as silver paste electrodes and drop-cast PEDOT:PSS, while maintaining functionality. The device operates as a switch, visualized through a propeller motor, and achieves an average ON/OFF ratio of 475. A pilot study with 12th-grade students demonstrated the experiment's robustness and educational effectiveness, with post-intervention knowledge tests revealing significant learning gains. Supplementary materials, including an animation and lab protocols, enhance understanding of OECT principles. The study underscores the feasibility of integrating modern research topics into curricula, paving the way for future developments like logic gates and expanded experimental kits. This work highlights the potential of OECTs as a tool for engaging students in organic electronics and fostering STEM interest.

Curriculum Innovation, organic electronics, semiconductors, transistors, PEDOT:PSS