A household name in the EdTech and MakerEd worlds, Kano is known for its engaging computer kits that engage kids exceptionally well in hands-on learning. The original Kano kit is a computer that kids build from scratch themselves, learning about all the different components that go into creating a computer. Using Kano, they can see that they need a power supply, monitor, and a way to display content on the screen using an HDMI cable. That original kit from Kano was just the beginning, however, and now they offer different add-ons to help support deeper learning and even more fun. One of those add-ons is the Kano Pixel Kit, which empowers kids to invent and code dazzling lights in up to 16 million different colors.
The pixel add-on can be used with a Kano computer or with a regular PC or laptop. It’s supported by Mac’s, PC’s, and computers running Windows 7 or later. Like other Kano kits, the Pixel Kit comes with a guidebook that walks students through all the steps necessary for creating their own pixel. The instructions and illustrations are very straightforward and clear, making creating with the Pixel Kit perfect for elementary aged students. First, students are introduced to all the parts of the Pixel Kit, including the LED board, battery, joystick, filter, and more.
Within the guidebook, students are able to get to know lightboards and how they are used to power some of today’s most common technology, like traffic lights, for example. They also get to learn about how computer code can be used to control the functions of lightboards and how they are able to do that using the Pixel Kit! To get started, it’s best to download the Kano app onto the device you’re using with the Pixel Kit.
The setup instructions are also very straightforward and each of the components are readily visible within the Pixel Kit box. Another nice feature is that the illustrations in the guidebook that represent each of these components are clear so that there is much less of a chance that a student accidentally grabs the wrong piece because it looks too much like something else. As students follow the illustrations in the guidebook, they can somewhat quickly progress to the completion of their building. Then, they can get the pixel board to light up to see what it’s like to code!
The guidebook then directs them to the coding portion of using the Pixel Kit, introducing them to three different lightshows: Perlin noise, Music Visualizer, and Particle Flow. Students can use the joystick to toggle between the options on their screen. The guidebook also features some brief descriptions of each type of animation, so that kids are able to get a sense of what these kinds of things are used for in the real world. The Perlin Noise, for example, is what programmers use to make fields of color, which is used in animations, movies, and games!
By turning the dial to its different settings, students can experience the different modes of the Pixel kit. In Game Mode, they can play the classic Snake game right on the pixel! And, there are other games they can play once they access the Kano app from their device. As they try and succeed at the various games, students can unlock different opportunities and become computer science pros! All the while, the Pixel Kit is great for highlighting STEM skills, like engineering, coding, problem solving, and more!
The Pixel Kit has been tested and used by thousands of educators all around the world. It’s become a wildly popular addition for teachers who have taught with Kano in the past as well as for students who have learned with Kano. By starting simple and allowing them to light up the board using simple blocks that represent code, the Pixel Kit helps kids develop a programming foundation that will help them become ready to take on the JavaScript options the Pixel Kit supports as well! To grab a Kano Pixel Kit from the Eduporium store in single units or a 5-pack, click below! Be sure to follow us on Twitter and Instagram as well to keep up with all of the new releases from Kano and the rest of our EdTech partners.