1-Pager
All grades  Project 3 weeks

Geo-Zone Zappers: Cosmic Code Quest!

Kim M
6-8.AF.5.3
3B-AP-08
6-8.AF.5.5
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
1-pager

Purpose

This project aims to immerse students in the practical application of geofencing technology, fostering their understanding of its diverse applications and ethical considerations. Through hands-on activities, students will design, prototype, and present solutions that address real-world challenges, enhancing their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. By collaborating with community partners and engaging in exhibitions, students will gain insights into the societal impact of geofencing, while developing self-directed learning and academic mindset competencies.

Learning goals

Students will develop and apply coding skills to create algorithms that simulate geofencing applications, utilizing block-based or text-based programming languages. They will engage in critical thinking and problem-solving by designing innovative geofencing solutions for real-world and space scenarios, considering ethical implications such as privacy and data security. Through hands-on projects, students will understand the integration of sensors, actuators, and location-based services, and how these technologies impact society. They will also enhance their self-directed learning by reflecting on feedback and iterating on their designs.
Standards
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] 6-8.AF.5.3 - Create algorithms (a series of ordered steps) to solve a problem.
  • [Computer Science Teachers Association] 3B-AP-08 - Describe how artificial intelligence drives many software and physical systems.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] 6-8.AF.5.5 - Use digital tools and/or mathematical concepts and arguments to test and compare proposed solutions to an engineering design problem.
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.

Products

Students will design and build a drone-based system that simulates a geofencing application for precision agriculture, autonomously spraying water or fertilizer within a designated area. They will also create a Lego Spike robot to navigate a simulated construction site, using geofencing to avoid restricted zones. Additionally, students will develop a virtual reality simulation for a space mission, guiding a spacecraft through safe orbital paths. These projects will culminate in a Geofencing Innovation Symposium where students present their solutions and demonstrate their applications to peers and community partners.

Launch

To kick off this learning experience, organize an interactive "Geofencing Adventure Day" where students engage in a series of geofencing-themed challenges around the school campus. Set up stations where students use GPS-enabled devices to navigate to specific locations, triggering tasks that simulate real-world geofencing applications, such as unlocking clues or completing mini-missions. This hands-on exploration will spark curiosity and set the stage for deeper investigation into geofencing concepts and their applications.

Exhibition

Students will host a 'Geofencing Innovation Symposium' where they present their projects in a conference-style setting. This event will feature poster sessions and live demonstrations, allowing students to showcase their drone-based systems, Lego robots, and virtual reality simulations. Attendees, including peers, teachers, and community partners, will engage in Q&A sessions to explore the ethical considerations and real-world applications of the students' designs. This exhibition will provide a platform for students to articulate their learning journey and receive constructive feedback.