Team Members:
Short Video:
- video (avi)
Publications:
- Horn, M.S., and Jacob, R.J.K., Designing Tangible Programming Languages for Classroom Use. Proceedings of TEI'07 First International Conference on Tangible and Embedded Interaction, (2007).
- Horn, M.S. and Jacob, R.J.K. Tangible Programming in the Classroom with Tern. Proceedings of CHI'07 ACM Human Factors in Computing Systems (CHI Trends Interactivity), ACM Press (2007).
Overview
Tern is a tangible programming language designed for elementary
students (grades K-5). It consists of a collection of wooden blocks
shaped like jigsaw puzzle pieces. Children connect these blocks to
form physical computer programs that may include action commands,
loops, branches, and subroutines. Our current prototype allows
children to program iRobot Create
robots.
Unlike other tangible programming languages, Tern's parts contain no embedded electronics or power supplies. Instead, we use a digital camera and reliable computer vision technology to compile Tern programs into digital code. This allows us to create inexpensive and durable parts that are practical for classroom use. Children work in offline settings, such as on their desks or on the floor, and use a scanning station when they are ready to compile their programs. And, because children no longer need to crowd around a computer screen to write programs, this approach facilitates very different styles of collaboration among students.
Tern is designed to eliminate the possibility of language syntax errors. The jigsaw puzzle shape of the blocks provides a physical constraint system that prevent invalid language constructions from being assembled as physical constructions. Tern programs can be compiled in a matter of seconds with the press of a button.
Our work with Tern is ongoing. We are currently evaluating Tern in two classrooms in a public elementary school in Boston.