Computer Science

Report of a Workshop on the Pedagogical Aspects of Computational Thinking

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Copies: 1

This report summarizes the second of two workshops on computational thinking, which was held February 4-5, 2-10, in Washington, D.C., under the auspices of the National Research Council's (NRC's) Committee for the Workshops on Computational Thinking.

Author:

National Research Council of the National Academies

Report of a Workshop on the Pedagogical Aspects of Computational Thinking

Teaching Programming Concepts through Play

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Copies: 9

Understanding how computer programming works is a critical part of digital literacy for students today. Even students who aren't learning how to code can benefit greatly from knowing how programs work. This book uses highly engaging games to immerse students in the world of logical thinking and problem solving. From programming robots to writing stories that work as interactive fiction games, the lessons in this book provide ways to build digital literacy beyond the computer lab.

Games:

Author:

Christopher Harris and Patricia Harris Ph.D. with Brian Mayer

Teaching Programming Concepts through Play

Help Your Kids With Computer Coding

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Copies: 1

Help Your Kids with Computer Coding is exactly what ever parent of a budding computer programmer needs. The straightforward visual approach combines colorful graphics with step-by-step instructions, making the art of coding clear and enjoyable for the complete beginner.

From coding basics to fun projects, this unique guide will inspire children to use their imaginations and problem-solving skills to build games and animations using two different programming languages—Scratch and Python.

Code Monkey Island

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Code Monkey Island is a family-friendly board game that introduces kids ages 8 and up to programming concepts used by real programmers. Code Monkey Island is a board game designed for families.

Grade Level:

Middle

High

Content Area:

Computer Science

Business/Technology

Play Time:

45 min.

Bloxels (5 Pack)

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Bloxels helps kids achieve their nearly universal desire to create video games (seriously, just ask any kid), rather than just playing them. By using the unique combination of hands-on toys and their love and understanding of classic video games, we've made video game creation accessible and fun for all ages. With Bloxels, you are the artist, the game designer, the storyteller, the programer, the publisher and the player. You are the 13-bit Builder.

Grade Level:

Content Area:

Learn to Program with Scratch

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Copies: 1

Scratch is a fun, free, beginner-friendly programming environment where you connect blocks of code to build programs. While most famously used to introduce kids to programming, Scratch can make computer science approachable for people of any age. Rather than type countless lines of code in a cryptic programming language, why not use colorful command blocks and cartoon sprites to create powerful scripts?

Author:

Majed Marji

Python for Kids

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Copies: 1

Python is a powerful, expressive programming language that's easy to learn and fun to use! But books about learning to program in Python can be kind of dull, gray, and boring, and that's no fun for anyone.

Author:

Jason R. Briggs

Learn to Program with Minecraft

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Copies: 1

A blocky introduction to programming. You've bested creepers, traveled deep into caves, and maybe even gone to The End and back—but have you ever transformed a sword into a magic wand? Built a palace in the blink of an eye? Designed your own color-changing disco dance floor? In Learn to Program with Minecraft®, you'll do all this and more with the power of Python, a free language used by millions of professional and first-time programmers!

Author:

Craig Richardson

Understanding Coding with Lego WeDo

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Copies: 1

Much like its older brother, Lego Mindstorms, Lego WeDo kits offer young engineers the chance to design and program creations all by themselves. WeDo kits take the fun and technology of Mindstorms kits and make it simpler for novice coders and builders. WeDo software is easy to learn and a blast to use. At the same time, using WeDo can easily be integrated into STEM instruction. Accessible text and clear photographs help readers make sense of a potentially difficult topic. Eye-catching sidebars and a graphic organizer round out this exciting learning experience.

Author:

Patricia Harris

Understanding Coding with Lego Mindstorms

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Copies: 1

The first Lego Mindstorms sets were released in the early 1990s. Since then, Lego's line of buildable, programmable robots has become a sensation with budding coders all over the world. More than just toy building blocks, Lego Mindstorms sets allow users to familiarize themselves with manipulating and customizing computer hardware and software. In this volume, readers will learn what it takes to be a Mindstorms builder and programmer! The manageable text is supported by clear photographs and a concluding graphic organizer.

Author:

Patricia Harris

Computer Science

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