In this assignment, students work either individually or in pairs to create rules for Picobot, a robot that traverses an environment. Students must create regular expression-like text rules that make Picobot traverse the entire area starting in a random position and traversing a maze. For extra credit, students can create the smallest possible rule sets. This assignment requires students to think algorithmically without the use of code and to troubleshoot the algorithms they think of. It is particularly useful for students who are new to programming and need additional practice decomposing problems.
Integrate pair programming when it is appropriate for students to collaborate on a lab, assignment, or project. The “driver” controls the mouse and the keyboard, while the “navigator” makes suggestions, points out errors, and asks questions. Partners routinely switch roles to gain the benefits of each role.
Relates CS topics to another type of problem to Employ Meaningful and Relevant Content.