EXPLORING THE INTERNET OF THINGS

As part of their deep dive into the world of computer science, Jamie Back’s computer science 2 class explored Adafruit’s PyPortal Internet of Things touchscreen display to play with Python code. If you had to read that sentence twice and still believe it’s made up, you are certainly not alone.

According to Wikipedia, the Internet of Things “describes physical objects (or groups of such objects) with sensors, processing ability, software, and other technologies that connect and exchange data with other devices and systems over the Internet or other communications networks.”

If that still does not help, let us explain.

“I think holding things is a great way to learn and we talked about the Internet of Things in class, so through random web searches I found inexpensive devices and easy ways to connect them to the Internet,” explains Back. “The kids enjoy rolling up their sleeves too so we purchased some so they could play. Devices like these are everywhere so it is a good connection to the real world.”

The goal of the project was for the students to create an interactive display to show the data from their Internet of Things sensors, which are installed in 14 classrooms throughout the Lower School and Middle School.

The students had to figure out how the device worked and then alter the device to create their own interactive display that showed the classroom data collected from temperature and humidity sensors.

“The excitement in the room was real – the students were so excited to explore, learn, and share what they learned with each other,” says Back. “This project brought us a reason to discuss stuff that I had not planned on, such as correct data sampling and collection and intellectual property rights, as well as concepts directly related to the curriculum, such as analogue verses digital data and data compression, in a hands-on way.”

Gracie Barnes ’23 said the assignment also gave her a new appreciation for all devices, new and old. “I realized the complexity behind every device. There are 538 lines of code behind this little device that all help it go. I can’t begin to imagine the coding for something like my cell phone. I also have a new appreciation for older technology, like the Edison phonograph and disposable cameras. We think our iPhones are so simple, but seeing old technology helps me appreciate the new technology and where we started.”

Gracie also says the class helped her understand other parts of technology, such as social media, and how important her exposure to classes like this has been.

“As a teenager, I know that social media addiction is real. The struggle for me is real. This class not only helped me gain an appreciation for the work that goes into creating things but also how I need to be a responsible user of technology. Learning more about computer science is really important with the way the world is going; I’m sure knowing this stuff will help me in any future job, especially with society growing toward AI [artificial intelligence]. This is the third class I’ve taken with Mrs. Back. I’m not great with technology but she makes it simple. Country Day has provided me with a lot of experienced teachers like Mrs. Back and Mrs. [Lauren] Corrigan, and I’m grateful for those opportunities.”

We are pleased to announce that Alpacino “Al” Beauchamp was named the school’s director of academic aff airs.

Beauchamp will work directly with Head of School Rob Zimmerman `98 to lead the school’s academic program. As director of academic aff airs, Beauchamp is charged with advancing a culture of innovative teaching and learning, providing faculty with meaningful professional growth opportunities, and further differentiating the school’s program to promote the highest standards of academic excellence.

“While this was an international search, we were delighted to fi nd Al’s unique blend of experiences right here in Cincinnati,” says Zimmerman. “Al is well-positioned to have an