Research
Robot Math
I’m currently reviewing and performing data analysis for the Robot Math - Enhancing Mathematics through Robotics project by Dr. Kopcha. This project was comprised of a four-day workshop with Union Point STEAM Academy teachers to gather data regarding their views of using technology in instruction, the use of a technology enhanced instruction using Ozobot robots, and feedback post implementing the enhanced technology instruction. Manuscript in progress.
Scratch Programming Day Session
Scratch Programming Day Session was a Saturday morning workshop developed to introduce the Greene County Girl Scouts to the Scratch programming language. This workshop was developed as my final project for the EDIT 8190 Design Studio course. The Scratch programming language is one of the most popular programming resources to introduce young learners to programming. The original purpose of this project was to observe how young learners engaged with the application. An unexpected design element that came about for this project was designing a workshop that accommodated a variety of grade ranges from second through twelfth. The solution to this design dilemma resulted in using physically printed blocks to engage the youngest learners, the Brownies, while using a “software designer” approach for the older learners, Juniors and above. Using the laminated Scratch blocks and hands-on activity with the Brownies allowed them to engage with the application on a level that was appropriate for their skill level. For the older learners, I used a “software designer” approach of asking them to design a game that the younger scouts could play. Results from the session suggest that the hands-on and tangible blocks were successful for the Brownies. However, the lack of attentiveness given to the older scouts resulted in a successful but reserved engagement with the application. They completed the task however they did not add advanced or unique elements to their designs.