Applications of Programmable Systems

In this activity, students examine how programmable systems have developed over time. Students use the internet to research a programmable system, place inventions correctly on a timeline and use information about developments in electronics, computing and materials to explain patterns in the development of programmable systems. Modern society depends on programmable systems, from industrial robots to smartphones. The systems of today are only possible because of past inventions. Students work in teams to research details about one programmable system from the past. They then present their findings and work as a class to build up a timeline. Students can then work independently using this timeline, plus other key inventions, to describe and explain patterns in the development of programmable systems. The teacher notes give clear and comprehensive guidance on how the resources are to be delivered.