Workshop Programme Teachers' Notes
Activities before the visit
·
Show your pupils the map of LEGOLAND Windsor. Discuss their expectations of the
visit and any concerns, e.g. what to do if they are separated from the group or they
feel unwell during the day.
·
Talk about the activities that will take place.
·
Introduce the pupils to the concept of computer control. Talk about computer-
controlled things that the pupils are familiar with.
Activities after the visit
·
Tasks through direct commands:
- The pupils work in pairs: one is a controller, the other the robot.
- The controller must command the robot to carry out a task such as pick up a
book, walk round a table and place the book an a shelf or perform a silly walk
or dance.
- The robot can only react to specific instructions from the controller. To say
"walk" is not enough.
- The instruction needs to be precise, such as: "Lift a leg. Move leg forward and
put it down on the floor 15cm in front. Shift body weight onto left leg and
repeat action with right leg."
Taking Control
Activities cont...
Computer control falls into two broad categories:
·
Sequenced control a series of commands is stored and repeated.
Typically used for such things as traffic lights, rotating advertising boards, and production
equipment.
·
Feedback control the computer reacts to input from a sensory device. For example the
windows in a modern greenhouse will open when the temperature reaches a certain level;
street lamps will switch on when it gets dark; the burglar alarm will start when there is a
movement in the room... and so on.
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