To begin with I became familiar with what
computer control is. This is a set of instructions that are programmed into a
machine enabling devices to respond and operate in an encoded manner. I was
also made aware of the types of mechanisms that are computer controlled.
Examples of Computer Control
·
Barcode Scanners
·
Central Heating
·
Washing Machines
·
Traffic Lights
·
Burglar alarms
·
Microwaves
Benefits of computer control
·
Are cheaper to invest in than people
·
Less likely to make mistakes
·
The device does not lose
concentration or get tired
·
Repeats instructions over and over
in the way that it is required to
After gaining an understanding of
computer control I was able to explore programmable toys. Firstly the class
were shown remote control toys which were quite exciting. In order for remote
control cars to work, procedures are required where instructions are given and
sent to the central processing unit of the device where it is stored. I then
became familiar with programmable robots such as a ‘beebot’, ‘pixies’, ‘roamer’
and ‘pippin’. These are used in the primary classroom.
After being made aware of these toys
I had the chance to work in a group to design a cover for the beebot and a
floor mat for the beebot to follow a route. My group based ours on the popular
children’s show ‘Jake and the Neverland Pirates’. The cover for the beebot was
a pirate’s mask and the floor mat represented a pirate island. The aim was to
use the beebot to find all the hidden treasure placed around the island and to
then finish at the empty treasure chest where all the treasure belongs.
Unfortunately we did not have the time to finish our floor mat but it was still
enjoyable to work together and achieve what we did.
Check out this dancing beebot video:
Here are some useful websites for
creating floor mats and beebot covers to use in the classroom:
http://www.earlylearninghq.org.uk/themes/themed-bee-bot-mats/
http://www.primarytreasurechest.com/bee-bot-resources/bee-bot-jackets.html
Beebots and accessories to buy:
Search this webpage to find great resources to support the use of programmable robots:
Programmable
toys can be of advantage to primary school children. Providing this resource
can implement learning experiences that can develop a child’s language,
literacy and numeracy skills; providing an array of learning opportunities. For
instance, pupils can design mazes for their programmable toy and create route
cards that the toy needs to follow. Creating routes or floor maps can also be
linked with geography. Children could also formulate stories associated with
the journey that a beebot or pixie needs to take. This fantastic resource can
be closely linked with mathematics too.
When using these programmable toys children can calculate steps required
to get to a particular place. They may also consider shape, position, angles,
measurement and problem solving when engaged in this practice. I particularly
liked the beebot and feel that it provides great learning opportunities across
the curriculum and can successfully assist in the engagement of most learners.
Skills that pupils
can develop from the use of programmable toys
- Logical sequencing
- Social skills
- Communication
- Problem solving
- ICT skills
- Space orientation and spatial awareness
Useful
links:
This is my final blog entry for the year. I hope you have enjoyed reading my reflections and have found some of my links useful!
