Computer Science Unplugged

Computer Science Unplugged (http://csunplugged.org/) is a set of activities designed to introduce young people to computer science using entertaining dramatizations instead of a computer.

Scratch

Scratch (http://scratch.mit.edu/) is a program development environment designed for young people. It uses drag-and-drop of blocks to ensure that syntax errors don't occur. The programs control the animation of sprites on a stage. There is a separate website for educators (http://scratched.media.mit.edu/).

Scratch Unplugged

This project tests the capabilities of Scratch by implementing the algorithms in the CS Unplugged activities.

I do not know if there is any pedagogical value associated with these projects. Some possibilities are: (a) The projects can be used to demonstrate algorithms without going through the trouble of carrying out the activities; (b) They can be used to review the activities that were perhaps done elsewhere; (c) They can be used to make the transition from the activities to programming; (d) They can be extended and modified by students looking for advanced projects.

I would be happy to add additional programs and documents to this project. Please write to me at the gmail user name listed to the right.