Introduction to Programming and Computer Science
In this series, we use Minecraft to probe the depths of computer science. Put on your investigator hat, and change your mind mode to coding. Each episode has an associated homework assignment. You can submit your solutions to the homework on our flip page, and the show host will provide feedback on selected submissions! Throughout this series we will cover basic moves, the Minecraft agent, loops, pseudocode, problem decomposition, nested loops, control flow, variables, functions, objects, types, arrays, expressions and operators, testing, debugging, commands in Minecraft, data, algorithms, binary, memory, and byte addressing. Once you have finished all the homework you will have a strong foundation in computer science. Do the homework, do not skip the challenges. I also provide a break in each episode as I try and survive in a hardcore survival world in each episode. I tie in concepts from programming into gameplay and make it as fun as possible. You'll probably also learn a thing or two about surviving!
-
Episode 1 - Move The Agent
In this captivating episode, young coders embark on a thrilling journey with the Minecraft Agent, a programmable in-game character that helps players build and perform tasks. Our energetic host and eager learners will explore the basics of controlling the Agent's movement using simple coding comm...
-
Episode 2 - Using Loops
Join our enthusiastic host and a group of curious kids as they dive into the world of Minecraft coding! In this exciting episode, children will learn the power of using loops to automate repetitive tasks and make their virtual worlds come alive. Through easy-to-understand examples, interactive ch...
-
Episode 3 - Decomposition - Part 1
This is Part One of Episode 3. Sequencing, try and write the code on paper, getting stuck and taking a break to think of a solution. Nested loops. Finding lots of iron and more villages.
-
Episode 3 - Decomposition - Part 2
This is Part Two of Episode Three. Sequencing, try and write the code on paper, getting stuck and taking a break to think of a solution. Nested loops. Finding lots of iron and more villages.
-
Episode 4 - Build a Fortress
Learn how to code the agent to build a fortress. We also have some fun with nested loops! Oh and of course, some hardcore survival! Have Fun!
-
Episode 5 - Control Flow - Part 1
This is Part One of Episode Five. Intro to control flow diagrams. Control flow for choosing a skin. Control flow for choosing what to wear in the morning. Decision trees. Representing decisions graphically. Creating a decision tree that optimizes our mine digging code so that the agent correctly...
-
Episode 5 - Control Flow - Part 2
Intro to control flow diagrams. Control flow for choosing a skin. Control flow for choosing what to wear in the morning. Decision trees. Representing decisions graphically. Creating a decision tree that optimizes our mine digging code so that the agent correctly handles situations with water, ai...
-
Episode 6 - Variables
Testing a hypothesis: are the developers being honest with the frequency of each ore. Correspondence between Minecraft chests and variables. Write a program that determines the frequency of the different ores. Variables vs. Constants when representing data.
-
Episode 7 - Functions
Oracle of Delphi. What is a function? How do functions take arguments? Knowing what vs. knowing how. Return values. Choosing function names. Scope of a function.
