Overview

I worked for SJSU College Corps where I contributed to the education of elementary grade students in under-served communities by teaching computer science concepts through an after school program.

One of our main tasks is to create comprehensive program kits that enhance learning concepts by developing Scratch programs and curating relevant materials.

I collaborated with a team to create Ozone Invaders, a video game to teach kids about the significance of the ozone layer while introducing key computer science principles.


Responsibilities

Project Context

Tools

  • Curriculum Development
  • Design
  • January 2023 - April 2023
  • Team project
  • Scratch
  • Canva
  • Jira
  • Slack

The Problem

What methods can we use to combine an environmental concern with a computer science concept in a way that's enjoyable for elementary students? What type of project could we create to achieve this goal?

Project Goals

Develop a fun game

A game combining an environmental issue with computer science.

Curriculum Development

A lesson plan to introduce a new computer science concept to students.

Scratch Directions

Step-by-step directions to build the game using Scratch.

The Process

Ideation

  • The team initiated the creation by conducting a team brain dump using FigJam, followed by game research to find inspiration from various existing games. Subsequently we established our design pillars, outlining essential elements and non negotiables for the game's structure.

    • Curriculum Development Breakdown

      1. Brainstormed a lesson topic and devised a plan to introduce a computer science concept, variables, to students.

      2. Designed engaging presentations with clear agendas and goals, introduced subjects effectively, and used interactive class activities to explore the concepts.

      3. Wrote step-by-step Scratch directions for students to follow, enabling them to learn and construct the code.

    Game Design

      Concept Art: Creating the essential elements such as the main character and background visuals.


      Prototyping: Building early prototypes to test basic gameplay mechanics and interactions.


      User testing: Improving the design by incorportating feedback through an iterative approach.


    Final Game Concept

    Objective: Protect our planet from the Sun's harmful rays by preventing the absorption of UV rays.

    Insights & What I Would Do Different

    • Additional features: If given the opportunity to make a change, I'd love to introduce an additional element into the game such as an item drop that grants players hearts as a reward for protecting the earth.

    • This project will be deployed in the 2023-2024 SJSU College Corps cohort for over 100 students to build and play!


      • This project not only highlighted the significance of teamwork in achieving project success, but also served as a practical learning experience. It familiarized me with working within cross-functional teams, where we learned from various perspectives and professional backgrounds. The mix sparked our creativity as everyone stepped out of their typical thinking patterns.



    Other Projects

    Spartan Food Pantry Website

    Live Status Webpage

    ARMICA Select

    E-commerce Website

    Let's Connect

    armicarichelle@gmail.com

    Download Resume