Electronic Computing
Provided by: Crash Course|Published on: September 22, 2023
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12, AP
Type: Videos
Subjects: Social Studies, Physics, Computer Science
Authors: Crash Course
Region: Global
Languages: English
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Synopsis
- This video explains the history of modern computing, from the mechanical and electromechanical computers of the past to the most advanced computers with semiconductors of today.
- The information is presented chronologically, providing historical context, connecting to science and math concepts, and listing a variety of historic computer models.
Teaching Materials
Positives
- This video is comprehensive and has ample points at which to pause for discussion.
- This video features excellent vocabulary development and several rigorous terms are introduced.
- This video can be utilized as an introduction to famous computer pioneers, physics concepts, or electronics.
Additional Prerequisites
- Teachers need a classroom device to display the video.
- Students should have a basic working knowledge of computers.
- The narrator speaks quickly, so adjusting the playback speed in the settings or frequent pauses for comprehension checks will be beneficial.
Differentiation
- This lesson can be paired with a modern history unit, since there are mentions of World Wars I and II, as well as the importance of computing to advancements around the world.
- This lesson lends itself to the use of Venn diagrams, T-charts, and/or other graphic organizers.
- Brief research regarding computer pioneers can be conducted in small groups.
- A connection to climate change can be made by asking students how today's computers help to quickly gather relevant climate data.
- Support non-science learners with basic information about electrons, circuits, and switches.
This short video from Crash Course provides an overview of the growth and the use of computers in the 20th century. Where and how computer chips are made is also discussed. This video would be a great addition to an introduction to computer science course or as a resource for a history or physics course.
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
Scientist Reviewed
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