Coding is the language of the here and now and the future and is globally used. It has become so important as a skill that in the UK the government put programming on the curriculum as young as primary age. There are multiple games available that teach the process of programming and coding.
For older generations, only those on the forefront of I.T. could speak the language and it was out of reach for the rest of us. The skill was not such an immediate thing to learn. Now we are surrounded by a world that whispers this language everywhere. In everyone’s hands, bags or back pockets is a computer so powerful that we see it only as a phone or a tablet where others see opportunity to something more powerful than most office PCs were only a decade ago.
Coding isn’t so niche anymore and new visual languages make it easier to get started. Anyone at any age can learn to programme. In a couple of hours you can know the basics and in a couple of weeks you can begin to build apps. The important thing now is knowing how to access this world.
Whether you are a first timer or a pro coder your curiosity can be quenched at Liverpool Makefest as we have something for everyone in this field. From demonstrations, workshops and games. Everyone can get involved in coding.
EXHIBITORS:
CODEBUG AND EHU GEEK-SQUAD
Coding just got physical.
Codebug is the cute, programmable and wearable device designed to introduce simple programming and electronic concepts to anyone, at any age.
Endlessly versatile, you could use CodeBug to create a musical instrument, animated badge, alarm system, dancemat or even a robot.
At Liverpool Makefest you become an inventor, coding a star to add to our galaxy far far away (well we are at the back of the library!). The Edge Hill University Geek-squad will be on hand to introduce you to the bug!
These workshops run continuously throughout the day.
http://www.codebug.org.uk
LIVERPOOL CODE CLUB
Running a free, weekly Code Club for kids aged 8–12yrs old, at Liverpool Central Library. We’re always looking for new kids, and new volunteers.
Rasberry Jam: MINECRAFT- MINECROBIT
Showcasing interactive hacks involving Minecraft / Pi and microbits.
@warksraspijam @warksmessabout @ncscomputing
http://warksjammy.blogspot.co.uk/
PATTERNCRAFT
PatternCraft is an analogue to digital punchcard reader that teaches the fundamentals of encoding data through the write once medium of a physical punchcard. Create your own punchcard and use it to send messages, build structures in Minecraft or program sound.
PYTHON-PROGRAMMABLE RAINBOW BADGES
Python- Programmable Rainbow Badgeswith @ShrimpingIt
This accessible workshop shares how to wire up and program the wifi-enabled, python-programmable Cockle ESP8266, using the example of an 8 pixel color-controllable badge running off 4xAAA batteries. The ESP8266 is an emerging, exciting technology fuelling the development of the Internet of Things.
The Cockle is our own python-programmable remix of the NodeMCUv2 ESP8266 module that we buy in wholesale for less than £4! We share all our software and supplier information for others to replicate our work, but welcome your support buying pre-prepared kits.
http://shrimping.it/project/cockle/
THE EDUBLOCKS PROJECT
EduBlocks is a companion to introduce Physical Computing and has been designed as an easy pathway to electronics and coding for children aged 7 and above. It is a visual block-based programming tool to help teachers to introduce text-based programming languages, like Python to children at an earlier age in a classroom environment to aid experiential learning and develop problem solving skills.
http://edublocks.org (coming soon!)
THE ROBOGAMES
The RoboGames are a set of 3 team games overseen by a giant floating robot called OLO. OLO is made using weather balloon with internally mounted Neopixel strips, 3D printed propellor cowlings and a hacked remote control unit. OLO is piloted to float above players, filming what is happening beneath and displaying the state of the game by changing colour. There are 3 games
1) Robot Rugby, which is a cross between rugby & doing the robot.
2) Fill the board for which teams compete to tag each other. Players strap oversized plastic buttons to their back, each time you tag a player from the other team another part of OLO is lit up your teams colour. The aim is to turn completely your colour.
3) Pixel workout is a group dance activity in which dancers play the role of pixels on a screen.
NOVODA
Novoda are a mobile development agency who works with Android, iOS and IoT. At Makefest, we’re focusing on Android Things! We have created interactive game’s using Android and hardware sensors & lights.
Android Things-powered Simon Says game
Novoda’s Simon Says is an electronic game of memory and skill built for IoT. Simon challenges one player at a time to memorise the hypnotic lights and sound sequences and requires a user to repeat the series. If the user succeeds the series becomes progressively longer and more complex. Once the user fails, the game is over.
Can you beat the top score? Get your name on the leaderboard to win….
Piano Hero! for Android Things (IoT)
Novoda’s Piano Hero! lets aspiring musicians and experienced pianists practice and show off their musical prowess and quick reactions. Suitable for beginners and experts alike, Novoda demonstrates the Android Things (IoT) platform as a brain and output module, integrating with mobile input devices so users can play notes as they appear. Win points by playing accurately to reach the top of our leaderboard!
EXA.FOUNDATION
exa.foundation exists to inspire digital makers, support Computing in schools and promote appropriate use of technology. Visit our stand to create with Minecraft, Python, Scratch and Raspberry Pi as well as physical computing experiments.
INVENTOR’S ASYLUM
A place to invent the future or fix up the past. We work with the community and individual makers on projects ranging from fashion based wearables through 3D printed Nerf turrets to all things arcade including the restoration of vintage pachinko machines.
http://www.funkyaardvark.co.uk
MAKERSPACE CPC
Interactive demos:
Raspberry Pi powered capacitive touch reaction game.
Microbit controlled crane
Minecraft Selfie machine
Exhibition and knowledge on computing boards and kits for Makers and Educators
http://www.makerspaceuk.com
CULTURE MATTERS WORKSHOP:
CODE-A-DRONE
Code-A-Drone showcases the power of coding in a fun and creative environment. During the activity, the participants learn how to code a mini drone to take off, fly, turn, do stunts, take photos and land safely. This can involve completing a range of challenges that put these new skills to the test or a specially designed obstacle course to navigate. Each participant is provided with an iPad to write their code and fly their own mini-drone. This allows the participants to learn and experiment at their own pace. There will be 2 x 1-hour workshops specifically aimed at children and young people, and a ‘drop-in’ session for anyone to call by and have a go a coding a drone!
http://www.makodigitalarts.org.uk/
There is so much on offer that we want to encourage both children and adults to get involved and take a step into the fun and endless world of coding.
Liverpool MakeFest 17. Free Entry. Liverpool Central Library. Saturday June 24th. 9am until 5pm.
Get your free tickets here:
https://lpoolmakefest.org/tickets/