2018 term 3: week 5: Python

Programming students need a little more time to finish up with their robotics, then we will be ready for our next section!  We will start learning Python programming.  Students will learn to install Python and our PyCharm text editor, then will learn some basics with the interactive interpreter.  Once we learn some basic Python fundamentals, we can start using the text editor to begin creating programs.  I love Python programming, so I am very excited to be moving into this section of class!

2018 term 3: week 4: Abstractions & Computational Artifacts with Robotics Assessment

Programming is about finished with our Finch Robots.  This week we have made obstacle avoidance applications, light following programs, programmed LED lights, and made music by programming the built-in buzzer for the robots.  Next week, we will be creating a Pong video game, where the image sprites are controlled by using Finch Robot as a motion controller system.  This is always a fun project, and it's crazy to see all the creative ways students find to program this assessment.

2018 term 3: week 3: Finch Robots

NPHS Programming 1 students have finished up basic fundamentals of computer science that we will be using this term in class.  We are using our software development cycle to create our first program, and will then be using our computers to program Finch Robots.  Some of the early programs will include the making of our keyboards as input devices to control the Finch Bot movement, timed motion, and self-automated obstacle avoidance systems.  Next week should be a lot of fun!

2018 term 3: week 2: Computer Science and Development Cycle

Programming students have looked at some career and college opportunities in programming and computer science.  We will next start discussing concepts of computer science with some "unplugged" activities that allow us to start getting in the right mindset for systematic problem solving.  We will then discuss the software development cycle that we will use for our projects this term, and will begin to put our first programs together.

2018 term 3: week 1: Careers in Computer Science

Hard to believe 2019 is here!  We are getting ready for term 3, which brings in a new class of NPHS programmers!  We will start off learning classroom procedures and expectations.  We will then talk about careers in computer science and programming.  Students will do a research project where they explore a career field related to computer science, then will present their findings to the class.  We will finish up with a reflection about the career field we learned about that we find the most interesting.  Programming is a tough course that requires a lot of work, but it is very rewarding when we are able to write programs that can solve a wide variety of problems.  I'm very much looking forward to another great term in programming 1 class!