This content is located in CAPS under Systems Technologies: Concepts of Computing for Grade 10.

Exploring different types of computing devices helps learners understand the diverse technologies that shape our everyday interactions. By making this topic interactive and practical, teachers can bring these devices to life, even in under-resourced classrooms. Let’s dive into teaching this concept with engaging, hands-on ideas.

Making Multi-Purpose Devices Tangible

Start with multi-purpose devices like desktops, all-in-one computers, laptops, tablets, servers, and smartphones. You can help learners visualise these devices by bringing real examples to class. For under-resourced schools, consider borrowing devices or using pictures and diagrams printed from free online sources.

To make it interactive:

• Activity Idea: Create a “Device Museum” in the classroom. Learners can label and describe devices based on their features and uses. Include components like detachable/flappable screens, 2-in-1 devices, and convertible laptops to demonstrate modern advancements.
• Discussion Prompt: Ask learners, “How would your life change without one of these devices? Which device do you think is the most versatile and why?”
• Hands-On Task: Let learners research and present on the differences between these devices, such as processing power, portability, and storage capabilities, using simple comparison tables.

Understanding Embedded Computers and Dedicated Devices

Embedded computers are everywhere—inside smart wear (like fitness trackers), single-board computers (e.g., Raspberry Pi or Arduino), and home appliances. To make this relatable:

• Scenario Exploration: Ask learners to list devices at home or school that likely contain embedded computers (e.g., microwaves, printers, or cars). Then, discuss their role in automating tasks.
• Interactive Display: Use a Raspberry Pi or Arduino to create a simple LED blinking project or temperature monitor. These demonstrations are cost-effective and provide hands-on exposure to embedded computing concepts.
• Creative Challenge: Challenge learners to draw a blueprint of a “smart classroom” that uses embedded devices. For example, interactive whiteboards, smart desks, or voice-activated lighting.

Dedicated devices like ATMs, cameras, and factory robots can be explored through videos or case studies if physical examples are unavailable.

• Group Research: Split learners into teams to investigate and present on dedicated devices, focusing on their role and benefits in various industries.

Teaching Convergence: The Power of One Device

Convergence refers to the merging of technologies into one device, such as a smartphone that combines communication, media playback, and computing capabilities. To make this concept engaging:

• Visual Exercise: Provide learners with older phones or illustrations of devices that lacked modern convergence features. Compare these with today’s smartphones and tablets.
• Hands-On Design: Have learners sketch or brainstorm their idea of the ultimate converged device for future use.
• Role-Playing Activity: Assign roles like designer, marketer, and consumer. Each group can develop and “sell” their version of a converged device, explaining its features and societal benefits.

Linking to Real-World Contexts

To ground the topic in reality, show examples of how embedded computers and convergence play roles in daily life:

• Video Resources: Share short videos or animations on factory robots, fitness trackers, and IoT (Internet of Things) devices like smart refrigerators.
• Role of Convergence: Discuss how convergence has made life more convenient but has also introduced challenges, such as distractions or over-reliance on one device.

Adapting for Under-Resourced Classrooms

For schools with limited resources:

• Use free online simulation tools or platforms (like Tinkercad for Arduino) to mimic embedded system projects.
• Print diagrams or bring learners’ everyday devices to class for discussions.
• Use locally relevant examples, such as low-cost smartphones or solar-powered appliances, to highlight the accessibility of technology.

Encourage learners to think critically by asking questions like:

• “How would a world without convergence look?”
• “Can dedicated devices still be useful in a world dominated by multi-purpose devices?”
• “What are the ethical implications of using devices with embedded computers in sensitive areas, like medicine or policing?”

Engaging with these questions fosters higher-order thinking and ties the lesson to broader societal impacts.