In the workshop today, we looked at computer control and digital media and how they both can be incorporated into the classroom. It really is a great way to include each child!
What is computer control?
Computer control is essentially programming a computer to do a job. A set of instructions are programmed into a machine which causes it to operate in predetermined manner.
There are many computer controlled objects both inside the home such as microwaves, ovens, digital alarm clocks, sky+, central heating and washing machines, and outside the home such as traffic lights, central locking, CCTV cameras, lifts and barcode scanners.
Why is it better for computers to control than humans?
- Never get tired
- Never lose concentration
- Doesn't make mistakes (but when it does, it more to do with human error)
- Can repeat same instructions over again in exactly the same way
- Are cheaper to employ than humans
We then had a chance to experiment, look at the features of different programmable toys and discuss how they can be used effectively to enhance learning for children in the classroom . The toys included:
- Beebot (my favourite which i will analyse)
- Pixie
- Data Logger - measures light, temperature and sound
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The Beebot in action!
BeeBots are programmable floor robots that are easy to use and are an excellent introduction to control technology and really is about learning, practicing and understanding:
- cause and effect
- directionality
- sequencing
- spatial awareness
- knowledge & understanding
The beebot can engage practical learning in many cross curricular areas:
- Maths - shape, position and movement, angle, measurement & problem solving. for example, around the use of number lines, and to begin seeing the forward movement of the turtle as addition and the backward movement as subtraction.
- Art - children can make their own mats overlays. This can be linked to the creative curriculum.
- Science - the in which it moves and operates e.g. the forces and energy
- English - How to communicate directions. Also, there are many mats such as the CVC mat where children can make matching pairs and finding the rhyme, final or initial sound by directing Bee-Bot to the corresponding image. Geography - Directions and co-ordinates (using a treasure island mat)
- ICT - The technology and programming aspect.
However it is important to differentiate and extend the learning using the beebot, for example, those who have completed the task of following simple programming instructions can be challenged to write their own programming instructions.
I think that introducing children to such technology to young children is fantastic for educational purposes. The more interactive the better! It is also great for SEN children who could use it to "develop one, two and three stage sequences using a variety of activity mats" Sue Woodgate – Head of SSSEN – Buxton Area Education Office.
Even though, this was not discussed in the session today, roamers can help early learners with basic reading, spelling and arithmetic, help struggling students and challenge the gifted and talented. It is particularly good with children with SEN.
It is important that demonstrations are involved to make sure that all children have an understanding of how it works and what the objectives of the activity will be. Having children work in groups makes it more fun and provides the opportunity for them to demonstrate their communication skills. A problem that could occur is the lack of space for children to work in but once a comfortable, spatial environment has been identified, we are all good to go!
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