Basics of programming and computational thinking
In this class we worked on the basics of programming and computational thinking by playing with little games that included algorithms.
Firstly we were introduced to what coding is per se, and what the term algorithm means. We had the opportunity to experiment with Scratch and Code.org but also there were two more options with special emphasis on educational purposes. These webpages are:
both that had a trial version and they are a base for coding to young learners. They use little games or challenges that increase the difficulty for students to write the algorithm that a character has to follow in order to achieve a goal.
Unplugged
Later we took a look at the unppluged webpage where there are hundreds of exercises and activities for learning about algorithms and how to write them. Particularly I find this webpage very interesting for kids because of the simplicity and the amount of materials available for free. In addition, not only all the materials but the lesson plans are also in their web.
Every activity includes a little explanation and has different videos that explain the process. In my group we chose the activity of making paper airplanes. Our colleagues played the role of students and we carried out the activity with them.
First they had to discard the unnecessary steps for making an airplane among 9 posibilites. Then, later they had to write the algorithm by putting the septs in the logical order. Finally they had to try if their code was working by making the plane and flying it.
Other group did choose other activities, like a non-verbal language code for sending messages and another chose how to use simple algorithms to describe the movement in a desired pattern.
On the whole, it was a nice lesson full or meaningful experiences. As a future teacher I am sure I can include this in my teachings.
