Abstract:
Teaching computer technology to kids has become an art in
American schools. However, there is a lack of
technical tools that stimulate both creative and analytical skills in
children. We would like to provide such tools that make the effects of
programming visible. One of such effects can be drawing shapes on a surface by a
moving object, which can be controlled by a simple program. This integration of programming and drawing makes technical
learning both productive and enjoyable.
To create a tool that combines educational benefits
with fun to use packages, we decided to design Etank. Using Etank allows students to learn basic
programming concepts by controlling movements of a toy tank that is able to draw
different shapes on a surface.