Byte Beads

Game Objectives

• Introduce high level computational thinking skills to children
• Use play-based learning to create an investment in a child's own learning
• Create an unplugged learning experience with easily accessible materials

Game On: The Problem that Started it All

STEM education is highly valued, yet many young learners are hindered, not by interest nor lack of curiosity, but because of systemic barriers. Schools often face resource limitations and the nuanced concepts of core STEM concepts like programming and computational thinking makes them challenging to teach at an early age.

Additionally, students with lower executive function (EF) skills tend to struggle more in traditional academic settings. Skills like working memory, problem-solving, and inhibition are critical to creating an effective learning culture and environment.

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Our Game is Designed to Change That

Byte Beads makes the building blocks of computational thinking and programming accessible, comprehensible, and entertaining by moving the learning off-screen and into the physical world through sound sequence creation. We intentionally designed the game to be easily printed and recreated so that access would not pose a barrier for learning and fun. By integrating executive functioning skills into the gameplay experience, the game does not just teach computational thinking - we help students develop the skills to become stronger learners and collaborators.

Byte Beads uses beads and strings to create sound sequences for the players to follow and create through movement. Players will be challenged by the increasing complexity of the sequences and encouraged to engage in collaboration with the other players through various game conditions. The dynamic structure of the game ensures a unique game experience each time, encouraging learners to stay engaged and return for more growth and creative exploration.