Introducing digital technologies

L1) What are digital technologies and computational thinking?

Digital technologies are all around us: phones, beeping fridges, traffic lights

Computational thinking: problem-solving using a sequence of steps to develop a systematic solution eg what to wear today? check weather app, assess results for likely temperature, rain forecast, compare with planned activities, choose clothing appropriate to weather and work day.

 

L2) Why learn digital technologies?

So much of the problem-solving being done now and into the future will involve the use of digital technology as part of the solution – therefore a better understanding of how digital technologies work will help shape solutions.

 

L3) Integrating digital technologies

ICT vs Digital Technologies – like using a game vs creating a game

May integrate into existing units and topics eg measurement, geometry, story-writing

 

L4) Activity ideas – digital technologies in your classroom

Classroom materials

Books – we have some eg Rosie Revere

Software – ipads K-2, laptops/Chromebooks y3+

Terminology- using it

Sharing and Presenting work – work on digital citizenship falls in here

Project ideas -library – branching stories, padlets, ebooks

 

L5) Task 1 – Possibilities with Digital Technologies

McGill, Concordia team up to create ‘net zero energy’ home

team of staff adn students cooperating from two unis, disciplines: different fields, including communications, architecture, engineering, design, business, computation arts and construction.

Goal – build a zero energy solar-powered house that works Montreal’s climate , an entry for “international green housing design competition, Solar Decathlon China 2018”