ICT Week 3- Computer Control

ICT Week 3-Computer Control

 

What is computer control?

 In the 21^st century computer software is far more accessible then it has ever been before. The use of technology is conveniently used in both the school and home setting on a regular basis. Programs are specifically designed for educational purposes which means there has been a significant change in the way both students and teachers are engaging in the National Curriculum.

 We live in a plug and play culture were we rely on equipment to make sure essential daily tasks are completed. To do this we use devices that are programmed in a set way, we control these by pushing buttons on the device itself or its remote control. In the lesson we identified various pieces of equipment which are computer controlled both inside and outside the home.

 Inside the home

·         Microwave

·         Television

·         Washing Machine/ Tumble dryer

·         Central heating

Outside the home

·         CCTV Cameras

·         Traffic Lights

·         Barcode Scanners

·         Pelican Crossing

 Why use computer controlled appliances?

As a group it was addressed that using computer controlled equipment was beneficial in numerous ways;

·         Cost effective- unlike humans they do not require a salary.

·         If programmed correctly they do not make mistakes.

·         Are able to repeat instructions without any alterations.

·         Do not need sleep and never get distracted.

Although it is noted that the use of computer controlled equipment has its advantages it is necessary to address the ways in which its impact has affected the society we live today. One of the main concerns is that it has resulted in less job opportunities for unskilled workers.

Computer control in the school setting.

It is important for primary school children to learn about computer programmable devices in an engaging way.  The group looked at various programmable toys and robots that could be used in many different areas of the curriculum.
BeeBot

This robot is the simplest of the robots and could be used from the start of key stage 1. The robot is brightly decorated to look like a bee, which can be appealing to young children. It follows simple instructions such as left, right, forwards and backwards which are represented by arrows on the bee’s back. It could be a useful resource for ICT, Geography and Maths.

 

Pixie

Similar to the BeeBot this robot is suitable from age five and follows the simple instructions of forward, backwards and turning at a right or left angle. This robot is small and can be decorated by the children to be more attractive. It can be a useful tool to help develop spacial awareness as well as communication skills when working with a team.

Pippin

Is more complex and can do more complicated tasks than the Beebot and Pixie. The Pippin moves in centimeters and degree angles and can follow a sequence repeatedly. This devices is suitable for Key Stage 2 children, it has various features that could be used to lead engaging and interactive Maths, Science, Geography and ICT activities.

Computer Monitoring

In the session we also had the chance to test out some computer monitoring devices that are used in schools.

Data logger

This piece of equipment is used to measure differences in light, sound and temperature throughout the day. It was easy to use and could be connected to the computer were accessible software created graphs that children would be able to understand. This device would be a good tool to use in geography, science, maths and ICT. I had previously used this tool when doing a project with a year 5 class about the local area. We had gone out onto the local high street at the same time for a week and recorded the differences in sound, light and temperature amongst other things.

 

 

Flexiscope

The Flexiscope is a digital microscope which allows children to observe the smallest of objects. It is very easy to use as it is attached to the computer through a USB and the image is projected onto the screen. It is possible to both record and take pictures of whatever the children are investigating.