6-8.CS.1 Standard Breakdown

6-8.CS.1 - Design modifications to computing devices in order to improve the ways users interact with the devices. [Computing Systems (concept) / Devices (sub-concept) + Inclusion, Computational Problems (practice)]

Computing devices can extend the abilities of humans, but design considerations are critical to make these devices useful. Students suggest modifications to the design of computing devices and describe how these modifications would improve usability.

Connections

NGSS Connections

The middle school engineering standards of the Next Generation Science Standards have students design a project with specific criteria in mind and have them evaluate to find the best design given specific constraints like functionality and cost.

MS-ETS1-1. Define the criteria and constraints of a design problem with sufficient precision to ensure a successful solution, taking into account relevant scientific principles and potential impacts on people and the natural environment that may limit possible solutions.

SEL Connections

One of the core competencies of social-emotional learning is having social awareness. Students who exhibit social awareness demonstrate empathy and can understand different perspectives including those from a different demographic profile than the student.

Core Practice 1 of the Computer Science standards is Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture. In order to create a more inclusive computing culture, students should include the unique perspectives of others and reflect on one’s own perspectives when designing and developing computational products. They should also address the needs of diverse end users during the design process to produce artifacts with broad accessibility and usability. Finally, students should employ self and peer advocacy to address bias in interactions, product design, and development methods.

Examples

A Smarter Watch

Modern computing devices do include typical devices like desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. They also include devices such as gaming consoles, digital cameras, e-readers, digital cameras, and VR/AR Headsets. In addition, one can find computing devices in many home appliances, such as robot vacuums, televisions, and modern automobiles.

As various aspects of technology, like displays and processors, have greatly improved in areas of size, resolution, and speed, new computing devices such as smartwatches have become available. Today's smartwatches are similar in many ways but depending on the company there are varying differences as well. Regardless, these watches are designed for the average user.

In this 6-8.CS.1 task, students will consider Connie, an elderly woman who suffers from osteoarthritis (OA). Connie is wanting a smartwatch to help herself communicate with her family and assist her with some of her daily activities. She finds though current models of smartwatches difficult to take on and off and use. Design some modifications to a current smartwatch model to improve usability for Connie.

First, learn more about osteoarthritis at the CDC website here. What are the symptoms of OA? How is it treated and managed?
Brainstorm the modifications that could be made to a smartwatch considering someone with OA. Think about charging, taking watch on/off, look, materials, and interface.
Sketch a prototype design. Draw a smartwatch and label the modifications that would be made. Include an explanation of the modification and how they would be of benefit to someone with OA.

More Examples

For example, students could create a design for the screen layout of a smartphone that is more usable by people with vision impairments or hand tremors. They might also design how to use the device as a scanner to convert text to speech.

Alternatively, students could design modifications for a student ID card reader to increase usability by planning for scanner height, need of scanner device to be connected physically to the computer, robustness of scanner housing, and choice of use of RFID or line of sight scanners

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