Demonstrate an understanding of the concept of a computing device.

Lesson Summary

The learning competency of D3 revolves around understanding the concept of a computing device. A computing device is a machine that can receive input, process it, and provide an output or result. The progression of understanding this concept spans from grade R to grade 3:

• Grade R: Basic understanding and identification of examples of computing devices.
• Grade 1: Acknowledgment that computing devices follow and interpret instructions.
• Grade 2: Elementary comprehension that computing devices follow and interpret instructions.
• Grade 3: Foundational understanding that computing devices can produce results or outcomes.

This learning outcome shares similarities with D1, which focuses on technology and IT understanding. A practical approach to teach this would include starting with explaining the nature of a computing device, moving on to sorting examples of computing and non-computing devices, and discussing how computing devices follow instructions and process inputs to complete tasks.

A project idea involves creating an "instruction machine" where learners act as a human computer. The first student provides an input (e.g., a math problem), the second student processes it, and the third student delivers the output. This activity illustrates how instructions, processing, and output are interconnected in computing devices.

Furthermore, this project showcases how coding games and interactive learning activities can reinforce the understanding of computing processes. By connecting daily technologies with the functioning of computers, students can grasp the fundamentals of how computing devices operate.