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Invisible Palming: so what is an algorithm?

Learn about algorithms and computational thinking through magic tricks and interactive activities. Enhance understanding of core computing topics in a practical and entertaining way, focusing on concepts away from computers. Access downloadable resources on teaching algorithms creatively. Explore the connection between magic and software development, highlighting the importance of human-computer interaction in computing. Engage in algorithmic and computational thinking exercises to boost logical and abstraction skills. Discover creative ways to teach computing through puzzles and games.

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Invisible Palming: so what is an algorithm?

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  1. Invisible Palming:so what is an algorithm? Prof Paul Curzon Queen Mary, University of London With support from Google, D of E and the Mayor of London www.teachinglondoncomputing.org Twitter: @TeachingLDNComp

  2. Aims • Give you deeper understanding of core topics • What is an algorithm • Computational thinking • Give you practical ways to teach computing in a fun, thought provoking way • away from computers, focus on concepts • Linked activity sheets and booklets can be downloaded from our website: www.teachinglondoncomputing.org

  3. Using magic tricks • Simple magic tricks are a great way to introduce algorithms • You teach kids how to do the magic tricks as well as the computing

  4. 1 On to the magic …Please keep the secrets • I’m going to teach you how to do the tricks • If you do perform them later for friends don’t break the magician’s code • Keep the secrets! • If you do know then don’t shout out • let others puzzle it out first! 1

  5. Invisible Palming

  6. Ponder breakHow on earth do they do that? 1

  7. It’s just an algorithm - that’s all programs are Put two cards between the volunteer’s fingers saying “2 cards make a pair” with the final card placed alone Collect them up a pair at a time placing them into two piles Ask the volunteer to choose where to put the extra single card Put the card there Put your hand over it, lift your hand, place it over the other pile and tap the back of your hand Deal out the cards from the first pile in pairs to show the extra card has gone Do the same to the second pile showing it now has the extra card 1

  8. Algorithms Having learnt the trick… • Now write your own crib sheet • The instructions to learn and then follow to do the trick • Include all the detail • You are writing an algorithm! • You are doing algorithmic thinking! • Make changes to the trick including its presentation to create your own version • You are doing computational thinking! 1

  9. Computing is about understanding people too Magic = secret method + presentation Software = algorithm + HCI Both the algorithm and human-computer interaction must work!

  10. Computational Thinking Lessons • Algorithmic thinking • Logical Thinking • Understanding people • Abstraction • Hiding detail in the instructions

  11. Summary Algorithms and algorithmic thinking can be introduced in lots of fun ways • Away from computers! • With games • With magic • With puzzles

  12. More support On our website to support this session: • Activity sheets • Story sheets • Slides Details of more worskshops/courses • free unplugged sessions • subsidised courses (e.g. GCSE programming) www.teachinglondoncomputing.org Twitter: @TeachingLDNComp

  13. Together we areTeaching London Computing Thank you! www.teachinglondoncomputing.org Twitter: @TeachingLDNComp

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