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Engineered Memory print | email |
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(Full teacher resource documents are included in the PDF)
Lesson Focus
Lesson focuses on the engineering behind storage devices, and engineering improvements over time. Though exploring the operation of the "floppy" disk, students explore the mechanics underlying operation, and then test the disk under a variety of conditions.
Lesson Synopsis
The Engineered Memory lesson not only explores how engineers designed the floppy disk and how it has changed over time, but also explores the challenges of computer engineers who must decide what components to include in new systems. Students explore how floppy disks work, test them under a variety of circumstances, then work in teams to determine if they recommend including or excluding the floppy from a new notebook computer designed for schools worldwide. They also explore developing punch codes and create punch cards for data storage. They explore the concept of re-engineering and also consider the ethical issues of re-engineering a product.
Age Levels: 8-18
Objectives
- Learn about computer engineering.
- Learn about product testing.
- Learn about computing history.
- Learn about meeting the needs of society.
- Learn about teamwork and working in groups.
Anticipated Learner Outcomes
As a result of this activity, students should develop an understanding of:
- computer engineering and planning
- computing history
- problem solving
- teamwork
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Lesson Activities
Students learn how floppy disks work and explore how they hold up in a variety of situations. Student teams are then challenged with evaluating and deciding whether to include or exclude a floppy disk drive in a new computer designed to be used by schools all over the world. They also develop their own punch card system and make their own punch cards. Student teams present their recommendations to other teams.
Resources/Materials
- Teacher Resource Documents (attached)
- Student Worksheets (attached)
- Student Resource Sheets (attached)
Alignment to Curriculum Frameworks
Curriculum alignment sheet is included in PDF.
Categories
Electricity And Magnetism, Technology
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