8P5-Circut Playground 

Daily log 

Codes

Reflection 

• Designing and building unique codes is possible using a circuit playground, an Adafruit device, an iPad, and a computer. This process helps to understand how software and hardware work together. Different codes can be created, each with a specific purpose. The process provides insight into coding and allows for creative exploration. 

• A deeper understanding of the coding process can be developed without tutorials. Instead of following step-by-step instructions, learning can occur through trial and error by examining and modifying existing programs. This experience can foster creativity and resourcefulness in problem-solving. Ultimately, self-discovery can make the entire project more rewarding and reinforce skills. 

• The final standard for this class is the Global Collaborator, which focuses on using digital tools to work effectively with others and contribute to the wider world. My project connects directly to this standard because it uses universally understood digital code that others could easily access and modify. Although I initially wrote the program by myself, the online platform I used allows people from anywhere to view the source and potentially suggest improvements. This demonstrates how even a solo project can be a starting point for global teamwork and shared creation in the digital age.

• A significant challenge I faced during this project was figuring out the complex process of downloading and saving my codes to the correct folder. At first, the technical steps were confusing, and I worried I might lose the progress I had made on my program. To solve this problem, I chose to actively use the resource of peer collaboration and asked several classmates for their guidance. With their clear explanations and step-by-step instruction, I was successfully able to download all my work, which shows the value of reaching out when technical difficulties arise.

• Given the chance to do this project again, my primary change would be to rely less on the initial tutorials provided at the beginning. While the tutorials were helpful for understanding the basic mechanics, they ended up consuming valuable time that could have been used for independent creation. By bypassing some of those early instructional steps, I believe I could have quickly moved into the coding phase and generated a greater number of unique programs. Next time, I will focus on a quicker mastery of the basic syntax to maximize my time for deeper creative development and experimentation.

• My project directly relates to the Computer Programming CTE program offered at Hastings High School, which focuses on developing skills in coding, software design, and logical thinking. Since the core of my assignment involved writing original digital code to solve a specific problem, it directly aligns with the technical learning objectives of this pathway. The process of debugging, problem-solving, and constructing a functional program closely mirrors the activities completed by students in that career track. Ultimately, this project served as a valuable, hands-on introduction to the type of work I would pursue if I chose to enroll in the Computer Programming program in high school.

• My project provides a direct link to careers in Game Development, an exciting field where professionals rely on coding to bring digital experiences to life. Game developers use programming languages to create everything from the core mechanics and character movements to the complex rules that govern the virtual world. Since my project involved writing original code and logically structuring a program, I was practicing the fundamental skills necessary for this type of career. Therefore, my work was a practical, hands-on experience that mirrors the daily tasks and challenges faced by professional game developers.

They blocked Chat GBT so I used G oogle Gemini.