What Is a Program?
Students discover what computer prgorams areCopyright 2004 Microsoft Corporation, One Microsoft Way, Redmond, WA 98052-6399 USA. All rights reserved. http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/images/results.aspx?qu=computer&ex=1#ai:MP900430487|
Students are introduced to the basic concepts of computer programs, algorithms and programming. Using a few blindfolds and a simple taped floor maze exercise, students come to understand that computers rely completely upon instructions given in programs and thus programs must be comprehensive and thorough. Then students learn to program using the LEGO® MINDSTORMS® software. They create and test basic programs, first using just the LEGO intelligent brick, and then using basic movement commands with the LEGO software on computers. A detailed PowerPoint® presentation, plus a worksheet and pre/post quizzes are provided.
Engineers in all fields use computer programs to do calculations, run simulations, program machines and much more. Learning how to program is an essential skill for almost all engineers (and many others) as computers are used more and more often to tackle all sorts of problems. Engineers even design the computer programs that you use all the time on your own computer, such as Microsoft® Word® or Excel®. When you text message a friend, that is done by a computer program! An "app" is a computer program. iTunes is a computer program used to make playlists and play favorite songs. A computer program is also what alerts a car's driver if a seat belt is not fastened and alerts the police when a burglar trips a building alarm.
After this lesson, students should be able to:
- Explain the meaning of a computer program.
- Describe basic movement programs for the LEGO MINDSTORMS robot.