Session 5: Programming 1

In this session, we were introduced to the ‘wider’ way in which ICT can be used in to the classroom. We were introduced to, how computer controlled toys can be used for educational purposes and the wide range of computer controlled toys available. The focus for the session was to make use of programmable toys and investigate the wide use of it across the National Curriculum.

What is computer control?

Computer controlled programmes are machines that can operate in a predetermined manner, by being given a set of instructions. The machines can be controlled by buttons, control panels or remote control.

Computer controlled programs:

Inside the home:

• Washing machine
• Central heating
• Microwave
• TV
• Burglar alarms
• Telephone
• Fridges

Outside the home:

• Traffic lights
• CCTV camera
• Barcode scanners
• Aircrafts

Benefits of using computer control?

• ·         Never get tired
• ·         Never lose concentration
• ·         Don’t make mistakes
• ·         Can repeat the same instructions repeatedly and exactly the same way
•        Cheaper than humans

Some programmable toys:

Some programmable robots:

Programmable robots are widely used in the classroom which can include a range of activities, addressing the different points from the National Curriculum.

The benefits of using Programmable robots:

• 'They help development of skills such as logical sequencing, measuring, comparing lengths, space orientation, expressing concepts in words'
• 'They encourage group interaction, conversation and collaboration'
• 'They are visually appealing to young pupils, with clear, bright buttons and a robust design.'

To read the full article click 'Floor Robots'

 

The National Curriculum 2014 outlines:

Key stage 1

Pupils should be taught to:

• understand what algorithms are; how they are implemented as programs on digital devices; and that programs execute by following precise and unambiguous instructions
• create and debug simple programs
• use logical reasoning to predict the behaviour of simple programs

Key stage 2

Pupils should be taught to:

• design, write and debug programs that accomplish specific goals, including controlling or simulating physical systems; solve problems by decomposing them into smaller parts
• use sequence, selection, and repetition in programs; work with variables and various forms of input and output
• use logical reasoning to explain how some simple algorithms work and to detect and correct errors in algorithms and programs

To read the full outline of the National Curriculum 2014, for ICT click this link: Computing programmes of study: key stages 1 and 2 

Some children with the Beebot

Children can program the robot to move forwards, backwards, right turn, left turn, at an angle etc. This type of activity addresses a point from the National Curriculum for Mathematics which states, 'Pupils should be taught to use mathematical vocabulary to describe position, direction and movement,' (to read the full requirements for Mathematics, click Mathematics programmes of study.) Also, activities like this involves geography as children can use the four or eight points of a compass.

 

In small groups we devised an activity that can be used with a programmable robot. We decided to do an activity round the world. We had a grid of four by three, with flags of different countries in the world. In this activity children can improve their geographical knowledge of the countries in the world; mathematical skills of forward, backward, left, right, angles etc. 

Our finished activity

To further this activity, children can be taught about the different countries, thus enhancing their geographical knowledge. Plus they can be taught a few words in each country. This activity will be fun, engaging and mostly importantly enlightening. Moreover, the activity can be differentiated in terms of the different countries to perhaps represent the different countries the children are from, thus involving EAL pupils in activity where they will feel engaged and motivated to learn.

There are also great activity ideas for using programmable robots:

• Making your classroom buzz with Bee-Bots: Ideas and Activities for the Early Phase
• Soft & Hard ideas to improve interaction with robots for Kids & Teachers 
• Pinterest

Thank you for reading my blog! Stay tuned for the next post!

Reference List:

Floor Robots, Available at: http://www.pdsttechnologyineducation.ie/en/Training/Training-Materials/ICT-in-the-Classroom-PDFs/Floor-Robots-focus-on-literacy-and-numeracy-Primary-13-06.pdf (Accessed 27.03.14)

Computing programmes of study: key stages 1 and 2, Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/239033/PRIMARY_national_curriculum_-_Computing.pdf, (Accessed 27.03.14)

Mathematics programmes of study, Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/239129/PRIMARY_national_curriculum_-_Mathematics.pdf, (Accessed 27.03.14)