If you want a job in media, technology or a related field, make learning basic computer language your goal this summer.
Raspberry Heights is a project based workshop designed to encourage kids to get excited about technology using Raspberry Pi computers.
What we have done is set up a six station workshop each equipped with a Raspberry Pi computer, HDMI display, keyboard and mouse. The stations also have a set of electronics parts for the students to experiment with including LEDs, resistors and capacitors.
There are currently 4 levels of classes.
Raspberry Heights is dedicated to fun and encourages kids to learn about computers and electronics. We will use our imagination and explore creativity by building a Raspberry Pi computer by hand, making Music with code, exploring programming environments, installing & playing games and Interfacing (connecting Raspberry Pi to other electronics). The program is split into 4 sessions led by myself
Session 1: Build your Pi – Our first session will introduce students to the basics of computers. They will learn the parts of the computer and what each part performs. This will be followed by hands on time when we build a case for the Raspberry Pi.
Session 2: Know your Pi – The second session will begin with more hands on fun. We will be connecting the display, storage, input devices and of course power. The session will conclude with discussion of operating systems and more hands on configuration of the settings for the computer.
Session 3: Control your Pi
The focus of this session will be software, what it does and how to use it. The students will be taught to download and install a game and play it. An introduction to Scratch, a programming environment developed as a project of the Lifelong Kindergarten Group at the MIT Media Lab will complete the lesson.
Session 4: Connect your Pi – Our final session will focus on connecting breakout boards and connecting and controlling electronics. The students will get to play with LEDs, servos and make some “music” with a piezo.
I hope your child can join us.
The Raspberry Heights Workshop began with the idea that children can have fun while learning to build and program computers. I started experimenting with the Raspberry Pi with my then 5 year old daughter, Olivia. It is with her in mind that I developed the curriculum for my Raspberry Heights Workshop.
What is a Raspberry Pi and why should I care?
Good question, the Raspberry Pi is a micro computer developed in England for the sole purpose of promoting computer education.