One computer program you could use is Virtual Breadboard.  You can get
it at virtualbreadboard.com.
Cost is about $40.00 USD if I remember correctly.   Tell James I sent
you and that I said hello.


	
Regards,

	
Jim
 

-----Original Message-----
From: piclist-bounces@mit.edu [mailto:piclist-bounces@mit.edu] On Behalf
Of Michael Algernon
Sent: Wednesday, November 26, 2008 3:32 PM
To: Microcontroller discussion list - Public.
Subject: Re: [OT] How should I teach electronics (to a seven-year old)?

Go with your strengths.  What do you already know about electronics ?   
Teach that stuff.
What does she think is cool about electronics ?   I would look at  
software that allows virtual circuits.
flashing lights, audio effects, video stuff is always fun.   There are  
software packages that allow one to create cool effects.  Then you can  
explain how those things work.  Robots are cool too.   They  
demonstrate motors , sensors , control algorithms , etc.
There are interesting video demonstrations on the internet.
Get her a good laptop.  I prefer MacIntosh.

MA
>
>
> On Nov 26, 2008, at 1:52 PM, Normand Fisher wrote:
>
> I've seen many recommendations on how to teach electronics in this 
> forum but they were all geared towards more mature students.
>
> My 7-year old grand-daughter wants to learn electronics.  The last 
> thing I want to do is to discourage her by using the wrong approach.
> I'm not convinced that some kits labeled as suitable for a seven year 
> old are necessarily good for learning.  They may be more about 
> playing.
>
> If anyone here has some pointers (courses, kits, advice, etc...) I 
> would sincerely appreciate it.
>
> Normand
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>


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