Big Bits is a visual representation of binary, aimed to help students learn what binary is. Big Bits can hold 16 different states (4 bits).
Planning and Design
Problems with learning binary:
- It is overwhelming
- A learning curve
- Usually only taught from reading texts
Learning binary can be overwhelming and complicated for new student. Others have attempted to find a solution to this problem, such as intricate wooden devices. You can find one here.
I believe a device that is interactive but still simple is the best solution to this problem.
My teacher contributed a generous amount of code. How it works:
- The program starts with the decimal number 1
- Decimal number is converted into binary
- Move the correct bit’s motor (up if bit is 1, down if bit is 0)
- Increment the decimal number by one and loop
My motive for the project was to help teach binary.
Evaluation
I was originally creating a braille character displayer which used the same motors, when my teacher suggested a better idea. I believe it turned out for the best.
If I had more time I would add four bits onto it, so I could have a byte.
