Lecture "Introduction to Computational Thinking", exercise 3

[essepuntato]

Write down two situations that are actually referring to the same pattern if analysed from an abstract point of view, as introduced in Section "Abstraction is the key". What are their common features?

[MattiaSpadoni]

Situation 1: you are searching a book in a library
Situation 2: a warehouse employee is searching an item in the shelves

They have the need of searching something that has a precise location.

[ilsamoano]

1. play rugby
2. play soccer

common features:

• score
• bring the ball over a certain limit (border)
• avoid enemies from taking the ball
• stay within certain borders
• respect a set of rules
• have fun
• try to win the match

[simayguzel]

Situation 1: Assembling some furniture's parts
Situation 2: Implementing an algorithm

Common features:

• there are some steps to be followed,
• the steps should be followed respectively.

[dersuchendee]

1. Painting portraying something you see in real life

2. Taking pictures

Common features:

• You choose what to include and what not to in your creations;

• You need to use some specific, concrete means to reach the goal of representation;

• In both cases, you can choose to make your subject different from how it really is, even if you are using it as a reference.

[MilenaCorbellini]

1. Translating an anciet document

2. Composing a piece of music

Common features:

• you need to define and identify the language you are translating or using;

• you need to deconstruct the text you are analysing or creating in their minimal parts;

• you need to create a mental scheme of your working;

• you need to use some intruments to work;

• in both cases you can use your personal interpretations.

[delfimpandiani]

1. Creating a specific color hue of acrylic paint
2. Making bechamel

Common features:

• Different ingredients have to be mixed in together
• There is a specific result desired, in terms of color and consistency
• For the result to be achieved, each ingredient has to be added in specific amounts
• Constant stirring is necessary, and at a specific speed
• sense of touch, vision, and smell are engaged

[LuciaGiagnolini12]

1. A bee building a beehive
2. A construction worker who builds a house

Common features:
They are both working "manually" to build a structure with a precise architecture/shape aimed to satisfy specific needs.

[lisasiurina]

1. Using proper allusions in the texts
2. Buying goods to match interior design

Common features: a possible algorithm to follow

1. Identify the main theme
2. Use source of data: (Dictionary of allusions, home interior design ideas)
3. Compare possible options, choosing the most suitable one

[EleonoraPeruch]

1. Do the laundry
2. Clean up the dishes

• In both cases you can choose between washing by hand or using a machine;
• In both cases, if you use the machine you have to set it and to press the start bottom, then wait and
take off the clothes/dishes;
• In both cases, if you wash by hand you have to wash and then put the clothes/dishes into a place
where they can dry, finally, you will wait for them to dry.

[SeverinJB]

1. Identifier: Keywords and Attributes
   Even though often by itself insufficient, people try to describe a matter in as few words as possible. For example, for books librarians use keywords and for social interactions we assign attributes. Even though rating a book by a few keywords is insufficient, the tags are giving a hint whether or not the book contains a compelling story, a theoretical explanation, or something else. Equally, knowing a few attributes of another person allows people to get to know each other quicker, but a character cannot be judged solely on this knowledge. Keywords and attributes are both used as the identifier for a complex sum.

2. Gratefulness: Meditation and Religion 

   For example, worshipping food is essential in many religions and is also part of meditation. Instead of eating as fast as possible without being present in the situation, believers and those who practice meditation, equally try to be grateful for the meal and to embrace the moment. In a religious context, people speak a prayer and thank god for the meal. In meditation, you should pause for a moment and might thank the earth for providing the meal. The act of showing gratefulness might be carried out with different words and actions, but the sequence is quite similar.

[Ioanna96]

1. Getting under the blankets to stay warm
2. Creating a fort under the covers of the sofa as a kid to come up with a strategy along with my sister against our imaginary enemies (a game my mom didn't appreciate for some reason)
   Common feature: Covers/Blankets connote safety and comfort, function as a shelter

[tceron]

1. Creating a playlist on Spotify.
2. Writing a list for the groceries.

Common features:

• Listing items in order to highlight, order or make them handy.

[essepuntato]

Hi guys,

Thanks a lot for all these new suggestions! I'll try to integrate them in next years lecture notes as additional material!

Great work!

S.