Today’s future research challenges already require different monitoring and programming skills. The easiest way would be to teach children programming through visualization. Visual Programming (VPL) – a technology that allows you to create program code using graphics instead of text.
The concept of visual programming dates back to 1975. There are many visual programming modifications on the market today. Several visual programming languages such as Scratch, App Inventor, Alice or LabVIEW Lego Mindstorm had been tried in schools. Google also launched a version of its APP called Google Blockly.
Programmers know that the choice of programming language for a software project is influenced by the scalability of the code, ie that the project can be developed more widely and integrated with other programming languages. For example, Blockly, which can be compiled into other programming languages such as JavaScript, PHP, Dart or Python.
Extended functionality of the SparkVue APP
PASCO Scientific focuses on the development of digital sensors. They have added Blockly language functionality to their software, for example in SparkVue it is now possible to compile code using different blocks. It is now possible not only to pick up the data but also to react to the collected data, for example if the children talk too loudly to give a signal that they will be a little quieter.
PASCO has launched the //code.Node widget, which fully fulfills the previously mentioned or //code.Node data, it is possible not only to retrieve data but also to use the same data immediately in the widget and to give the corresponding signal depending on the input.
In this regard, we are pleased to inform you that PASCO is now raffling off 4 x //code.Node STEM kits, which contain tutorials in addition to the //code.Node widget.
What can be measured with //code.Node?
//code.Node gadget contains the following sensors:
- Light sensor – measures the level of ambient light in both indoor and outdoor environments.
- Magnetic field sensor – measures the strength and polarity of magnets and magnetic fields.
- Motion sensor – measures acceleration.
- Temperature sensor – measures the ambient air temperature.
- Sound Sensor – Measures barometric pressure levels to determine the ambient sound level.
- Instant Switches – Turn programmed instruction functions on and off.
//code.Node provides an introduction to 5 measurable scientific phenomena that can be explored in the development of 10 basic standards-based coding concepts. Each phenomenon is explained through pictures and real life examples. For example, if the topic of the lesson is magnets and magnetic fields, students can create a magnetic field indicator and at the same time develop their understanding of Boolean logic by collecting and transforming data.
The Teacher’s Guide provides step-by-step instructions, sample code, and questions to explore magnetism and magnetic fields, probability, motion randomness, random number generators, light / night light characteristics, temperature, efficiency, and sound.
Take the opportunity to win the STEM set in the PASCO lottery
To enter the draw, fill in the form on the PASCO website, which can be found here. Registration is open until 08.11.2020 (incl.) – hurry up! We live with you!
To test your hand //code.Node sensor, contact us – we will provide free training for you or us. In the training we will show you how to use //code.Node and how to do it with it.