Posted by CSTA Conference Committee on May 26, 2023
We all know that coding is only one part of computer science. Yet when it comes to moving beyond the screen and into the hardware, it can be daunting! For those looking to expand their knowledge of physical computing, attending the CSTA Annual Conference is a great place to start.
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We all know that coding is only one part of computer science. Yet when it comes to moving beyond the screen and into the hardware, it can be daunting! For those looking to expand their knowledge of physical computing, attending the CSTA Annual Conference is a great place to start.
CSTA 2023 will gather the world’s largest computer science department as we work to find community and further your professional development. This year, we have a few sessions dedicated to physical computing that are perfect for both beginners and those looking to brush up on their skills.
Introduction to Data Science with micro:bit and MakeCode
Presented by Katie Henry and Jacqueline Russell during Workshop A, July 11 at 1 p.m. ET, our first session teaches hands-on data science using Microsoft MakeCode.
Microsoft MakeCode is a “making and coding” programming language with a powerful simulator for making games and creating technological solutions in any classroom. In this hands-on session, you’ll use MakeCode to program the micro:bit to collect data using one of its sensors (sound, temperature, light, magnetic force, etc.). Then you’ll use MakeCode to interpret, visualize, analyze, and share the data you’ve collected. No micro:bits are needed for this activity, but participants who have a micro:bit are welcome to bring it along. We will work in MakeCode’s free simulator, using free tutorials available to participants and their students.
micro:bit Madness: A Multi-District Virtual Showcase
Jessica Leedy shows how to introduce teachers and students to physical computing using micro:bits during Breakout F, July 13 at 11:55 a.m. ET.
This session guides educators through the process of introducing micro:bits (or any physical computing device) in a virtual setting. Prince George’s County Public Schools, in partnership with BootUp Professional Development, helped bring districts together for a virtual showcase of micro:bit knowledge and projects. In this session, we’ll share our strategies for delivering a virtual, hands-on teacher PD, and explore activities that can introduce micro:bits to students and teachers. Participants will walk away with a better understanding of micro:bits, templates to create their own district- or schoolwide virtual showcase, and some sample activities to use with teachers and students. This session is suggested for educators who work with third grade and up, as well as anyone looking for tips and tricks to introduce micro:bits or any physical computing device. No experience with micro:bits is required, but if you have a micro:bit, bring it with you!
Patterns of Computing and Electronics for Developing Microcontroller-Based Projects
Jason Alcarez has created a poster presentation to help you get high school students to go beyond the workbook with Arduino, available throughout the conference.
Despite the wide availability and affordability of Arduino and Raspberry Pi kits, very few high school students truly grasp how computers work, and even fewer have the dexterity and patience to work with electronic circuits, leaving them without the skill to develop a bespoke circuit with code. This session introduces an elective course that helps students build their understanding of and proficiency with computing hardware. Designed for Grade 10 students, this elective incorporates a one-semester crash-course in electronics proficiency using the Arduino development board and various breakout boards, followed by a second semester in which students can develop their own passion projects. Students with no prior electronics experience develop confidence through building circuits and writing their own code or adapting sample circuits and code to their needs. By the end of the school year they’re able to develop fun and complex projects tailored to their own interests. Students who have taken this elective pursue more novel projects for research and development courses in subsequent grades.
Register for CSTA 2023
Be sure to head to the full conference program to read more about these recommendations and plan which sessions you want to attend. If you haven’t registered for the annual conference yet, head over to the CSTA 2023 Home Page to secure your spot. We hope to see you there for three days of professional development, community, and learning!
