Academic Catalog

LINC 78C: PROJECT-BASED TECHNOLOGY PROJECTS

Foothill College Course Outline of Record

Foothill College Course Outline of Record
Heading Value
Effective Term: Summer 2023
Units: 2
Hours: 2 lecture per week (24 total per quarter)
Advisory: Experience with internet software tools, browsers, hyperlinks, online media resources, and basic skills using a computer.
Degree & Credit Status: Degree-Applicable Credit Course
Foothill GE: Non-GE
Transferable: CSU
Grade Type: Letter Grade (Request for Pass/No Pass)
Repeatability: Not Repeatable

Student Learning Outcomes

  • Use text-based coding language (e.g., C++ or Python) to control micro-controller devices.
  • Apply physical computing concepts to connect micro-controllers to various external outputs such as LEDs, speakers, motors, etc.

Description

Intended for educators and others, this course will provide opportunities to integrate technology into project-based learning. Covers use of Arduinos, Raspberry Pi, Microbit, or other micro-controllers, and control of these devices using code in text-based languages, such as C++ or Python, to enhance project-based learning.

Course Objectives

The student will be able to:

  1. Understand physical computing concepts and how to connect micro-controllers to various external outputs, such as LEDs, speakers, motors, etc.
  2. Use text-based coding language (e.g.: C++ or Python) to control micro-controller devices
  3. Build projects independently to express creativity, combining skills in making and coding
  4. Create and modify existing project-based learning lessons to integrate technology in all content areas using physical computing

Course Content

  1. Physical computing concepts
    1. Connecting to other objects
    2. Receiving input from other devices
    3. Providing output to other devices
  2. Integration of code to control micro-controller devices
    1. Basic text-based coding concepts
    2. Use of existing loops and scripts to build projects
  3. Creation of independent projects
    1. Development of original code to personalize or develop original content
    2. Integration of micro-controllers with other personally created physical items (3-D prints, handcrafted items, etc.)
  4. Adapt and/or modify existing projects
    1. Access and download existing projects from online collections
    2. Adapt existing projects to develop new and original items or functionality

Lab Content

Not applicable.

Special Facilities and/or Equipment

1. When offered on/off campus: Lecture room equipped with projector, whiteboard, and a demonstration computer connected online. Computer laboratories equipped with computers or laptops with internet access.
2. When taught via the internet: Students must have current email accounts and ongoing access to computers with web browsing capability and internet access.

Method(s) of Evaluation

Methods of Evaluation may include but are not limited to the following:

Developing a project utilizing physical computing
Presenting their design and project to peers
Making constructive contributions to class discussions and peer reviews

Method(s) of Instruction

Methods of Instruction may include but are not limited to the following:

Lecture presentations delivered in student-centered learning style, during which students take notes, follow demonstrations, or complete an activity
Facilitated discussions of live presentations, readings, or video presentations
Student presentations in small group and whole class situations

Representative Text(s) and Other Materials

Instructor-assigned notes, materials, and resources, including instructional materials, open education resources, multimedia, and websites.

Types and/or Examples of Required Reading, Writing, and Outside of Class Assignments

  1. Reading assignments include analysis of texts, selected examples, and student projects
  2. Writing assignments include a course project and multiple developmental projects, reflections, discussion responses, and peer feedback on projects
  3. Outside assignments include project planning and development, participation in online peer collaboration activities, and project development through an iterative process

When taught online, these methods may take the form of multimedia and web-based presentations. Assignments will be submitted online as well.

Discipline(s)

Instructional Design/Technology