CodIng unplugged
In schools where there were challenges with access to technology, computational thinking, and coding were able to be accomplished through “ unplugged ” lessons. Unplugged lessons are those that allow the student to participate in coding by working on a paper based or physical project. Students study patterns to learn how to code. Then the expression of the patterns can occur through many outputs. Students may listen to music and identify loops,
then compose their own song. Some may use music, movement and choreography to develop a new dance. Others may build a structure, noting the repetition and frameworks. Some will learn binary and make an art product, such as a binary bracelet. There are many ways to work with available resources and have a robust hour of code ™, even without touching a computer. In some schools, there was access to devices, but not enough for a class set. In these cases, two students may work together and do “ pair - coding ” or partner coding. In this case, two students share a computer. One is driving while the other is navigating. The navigator tells the driver what to do, and the team collaborates on the challenge the team is trying to
solve. Then, after a given amount of time, the partners switch roles. In addition to the experience gained by coding, communication skills are enhanced. The partners must be articulate in their instructions. The navigator must speak clearly and with confidence, projecting their voice. The driver must listen with a keen ear, interpreting the directions from the navigator and carrying the instructions out.
“ It should be mandatory that kids should understand computer science. ” will.i.am
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