COLLECTION NAME:
Graduate Thesis Collection
Record
Title:
Designing Computer Science STEM Toys for Children
Creator:
Cao, Andy D.O.
Subject:
Thesis (M.F.A.) -- Industrial Design
Subject:
Savannah College of Art and Design -- Department of Industrial Design
Rights:
Copyright is retained by the authors or artists of items in this collection, or their descendants, as stipulated by United States copyright law.
Abstract:
"In this technological era, advancement has accelerated to a point where most of the population across the globe understand technology only through attractive and easy-to-interpret icons. Only the front-end graphical user interface (GUI) is exposed, so the user does not need to investigate the backend or the inner workings of any electronics design. This interactive and reactive interface tends to human social behavior. One can be a loner yet never be alone. Similar behavior can be compared to drug addiction. Even the word 'user(s)' is associated mainly with computers and drugs (Turkle, 1995).
Abstract:
"From the late 20th century, software is not only interacting and responding with a physical component like buttons and actuators, but also exchanging data between other software that most people are not aware; for example, the World Wide Web, cellular phones, and internet of things. This thesis argues the importance for everyone to understand the fundamentals of computer science; binary systems like if/else statements, Boolean, loops, and calling functions. Without knowing the fundamentals of most commonly used things, humanity can potentially become passive slaves of what we are only comfortable with like our primitive beings. Understanding the fundamental of computer science is just as important as to understand the fundamentals of mathematics. It is without a doubt that artificial intelligence may become a norm and we as humans need to be well prepared for this next digital revolution also hypothesis as the technological singularity.
Abstract:
"It is crucial to prepare the next generation to grasp the fundamental of computer science. Computer science is a creative platform not only for fields in engineering, math, and science but also in art, music, and other creative industries. For example, if a young child wants to express their idea on paper, whether written down or sketched on a napkin, the child first must know how to hold a pencil. Computer science is as much of a tool as a pencil is to express one’s imagination. In this thesis, I will argue that the best way to grasp the fundamental of computer science is through computer science STEM toys during childhood adolescence. A well-designed computer science STEM toy can be a vehicle for inculcating logical thinking which is extremely important during childhood development.
Abstract:
"This study focuses specifically on the strategies to design computer science STEM toys to assist the fundamental understanding of computational structure as well as to create cognitive development for higher education. The method of development through research include, game design, education, gender, memory, computer science, and field research. In summary, this paper examines the design for computer science STEM toys to facilitate better learning opportunities through play."
Abstract:
*Keywords: computer science, STEM toys, design strategy, play, education, motivation, memory, emotion, gamification
Publisher:
Savannah, Georgia : Savannah College of Art and Design
Date:
2019-11
Format:
PDF : 125 pages, illustrations (chiefly color)