Kayla: Session 5- Computer Programming

I loved this lesson!

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

· CCTV

· 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:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WmlokmEtpMg

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

http://www.communication4all.co.uk/http/beebot.htm

Beebots and accessories to buy:

http://www.tts-group.co.uk/shops/tts/Products/PD1723538/Bee-Bot-Floor-Robot/

Search this webpage to find great resources to support the use of programmable robots:

https://blogs.glowscotland.org.uk/fa/ICTFalkirkPrimaries/2010/11/18/2simple-infant-video-toolkit-its-nothing-to-do-with-video/

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