The levels are carefully scaffolded. Learners learn how to use different program tiles as they complete each task. Students can see their progress by how far they have traveled along the map after each level. Receive feedback on how many tiles you used and how long it took you to complete each task. At each level, learners can adjust their tiles and replay the game to speed up their time or collect more prizes.
Elementary school educators and media professionals can use Cork the Volcano – Puzzlets to teach coding and engineering skills. Have learners work in pairs to create a plan that emphasizes that engineers and programmers work together as a team. Kids can play with her for 15-30 minutes at a time and then save their work for later. Cork the Volcano makes for an ideal station set-up or indoor downtime activity. Media specialists can implement Puzzlelets more formally using his 8-week coding curriculum available on the website. The Puzzleets play tray works with any Android or Apple device with Bluetooth capability or USB 2.0. Be sure to charge the play tray the day before you use it.
Learners learn about the engineering process through Puzzlets’ “plan, program, play” model. They design a solution, run the program, test it, improve it and try again. Cork the Volcano – Puzzleets is a great mix of physical manipulation and digital play. Even kids who have never thought about computer programming can be just as engrossed as solving a puzzle.
Hands-on gameplay with program tiles also provides a way for learners to work collaboratively. The Play Tray pulls children away from the computer screen for a while to discuss plans. After some practice, learners will find that they are more successful when working together. Puzzlelets appeal to visual, logical, verbal, and physical learners and bring them together to share their strengths.
Website: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.digitaldreamlabs.puzzlets.corkthevolcano.ep1&hl
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id1035460109?uo=4&at=10laCG&ct=website
User’s overall consensus about the app
student involvement
Learning is hidden in fun, challenging games. Children can physically interact with the tiles away from the screen and watch their plans come to life.
Curriculum and instruction
Students are not specifically learning how to code. Instead, learn to think logically and innovate like a programmer or engineer.
customer support
Over 120 levels of play keep learners challenged. Lesson plans and curriculum guides are also available on his website at Puzzlelets.
