Digital Media and Computer Control

In this weeks class we dissected "Digital Media" and "Computer Control". Although I am aware of how much technology has progressed our everyday living, I did not realise the extent to which it features in our daily tasks. Just in our homes alone the various computers we have that act electronically to make our lives easier are extensive:

• washing-machine. tumble-drier
• TV, DVD
• alarm systems
• central heating
• telephone. 

Not to mention those that exist outside the typical household, such as:

• ATM machines
• Traffic lights
• Bar-code scanners.

(To mention but a few).

Computer Control
As not to get away from the purpose of theses blogs, I will now discuss the use of computer control in the learning environment. Firstly what is computer control?
                   "Basically, all computer control means is using a computer to 
       control the action or movement of an object. We use the term ‘computer’ very
          loosely.  It doesn’t necessarily mean the kind that you are working on right 
                              now, it often means a processor or microchip. " 
 http://www.teach-ict.com/ks3_old/unit9_1/miniweb/pg2.htm 


The second question we need to ask ourselves is why use computer control?

1. They never get tired and they don't need breaks
2. They never lose concentration
3. There reliable and consistent
4. Less work-force is needed so money is saved on wages
5. They can repeat a function over and over again.

We had a chance to experiment with various programmable toys and apparatus that can be used effectively to enhance the learning experience of children in the classroom. These included a BeeBot, a Pixie, a Data-logger and an Electronic Microscope. Our task this week is to pick one of the computers and analysis it. I personally enjoyed using the BeeBot, hence I will discuss its advantages below.

BeeBot

 This is what a Beebot looks like. Children can develop many skills while learning to function this apparatus as well as having fun in the process.These toys can be programmed to follow a specific instructions to reach a certain destination. They are also capable of rotation. “Bee-Bot is a visually attractive, audible easily handle able programmable floor robot which can be used to support the development of skills in a wide range of areas. It allows learners to give a range of instructions from simple to more complex."

Sue Woodgate – Head of SSSEN – Buxton Area Education Office

It covers cross-curricular programmes such as:

• ICT-the computer and technology of it, 
• Math- the way in which it travels e.g. how many times would we have to press forward to reach a particular destination and co-ordinates, enhances math skills and spatial awareness, angles and shapes, 
• Geography- deals with diection, 
• English- using technical and appropriate language and 
• Communication - this is inevitable when working collaboratively
• Science - the in which it moves and operates e.g. the forces and energy.

It provides a new and exciting way to tackle what sometimes can be boring and tedious tasks. Variation is available and should be used to engage children in more practical and hands-on work. All attainment groups can enjoy this small robot as the activity can be changed and altered for different groups and ages, therefore is an activity that the whole school can partake in. It comes with various mats that provide ideas for how to get the best results for learning. For example, the children can find treasure on a map while following directions while older children can find math co-ordinates and can be more advanced in there programming functions. SEN students can benefit immensely from such interactive activities. "Pupils with SEN 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)



Just like any other subject or task, there is always various ways to assess the criteria. The end product can be assessed but more importantly the process in trying to achieve the goal. Observation by the teacher and TA is vital. Prompting the children to challenge themselves is also essential. Listening and questions is always an effective form of assessment. We can also use self-assessment and peer-assessment. Realistically any form of assessment can be integrated. 

Practicalities while using this robot involves demonstration- ensure all students have a grasp of how they work and what the objectives of the activity entail. Divide the class up into suitable groups as this is more fun and effective in groups. The biggest problem is ensuring there is enough space for all children to work in comfort - however once the spatial environment is targeted the learning is an non- stoppable process.