Computer Science Unplugged

This activity lets learners participate in the process of reconstructing a phylogenetic tree and introduces them to several core bioinformatics concepts, particularly in relation to evolution.

In this activity, learners cut out 5 paper cards and label them with 1, 2, 4, 8, or 16 dot(s) to explore binary digits.

This activity introduces the idea that computer scientists measure information by how "surprising" a message is.

In this game, learners experience how computers divide a big problem into many smaller ones and how they use binary "yes"/"no" questions.

In this activity about human interface design issues, learners help the Oompa-Loompas of a great chocolate factory solve different problems.

This activity explores the main algorithms that are used as the basis for searching on computers, using different variations on the game of battleships.

In this activity, learners conduct a simulation exercise related to public key encryption and try to intercept a message sent between two learners.

In this activity, learners recreate a method of detecting and correcting errors in computers called 'parity'.

In this activity, learners find the answer to the question, "if you have a pile of 8 cards, and you remove half, then half again, how many times can you do this until you get to just one card?" This w