Tracing Code Through History and Time: Unplugged Computing Across K–16 Classrooms

Le résumé fourni par la source

In this lightning talk, we discuss the creation of an initial G6-12 unit that traces how fundamentals of coding have evolved in response to socio-economic-political and technological motivators. The unit employed unplugged strategies to enhance students' grasp of core computer science principles and spark deeper engagement and conceptual understanding. Lessons were designed. We designed the unit so lessons can be used alone or part of a larger experience. While these lessons were created separately and used independently, the cohort collaboratively reflected and observed that technological advancements consistently build upon prior practices and habits, revealing interconnected developments that unfold over time. The impetus for this research has also been influenced by Meadow's work on communication throughout the ages, which explains coding in a similar manner. The complexity of communications progressively increases, yet the systems developed rely on simple, repeatable patterns regardless of whether they appear in the historical timeline. Examples of these communications include smoke signals, Morse code, and spectral imaging. Even binary code, a basic language composed of only two characters (0s and 1s), enables the creation of complex and sophisticated communication technologies. For example, the computational spectral imaging lesson immerses students in binary code and data representation through unplugged pixel art activities that simulate the transmission of satellite images, illustrating how simple patterns form the foundation of complex computing systems. In addition, the lesson supports the unifying theme by connecting historical communication methods to modern coding practices, revealing the continuity of technological evolution across time.

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