Code, Click, and Spin: The Digital Spinner

Bridging Computer Science, Design, Physics, and Math with Interactive Classroom Experiences

Welcome to the home of innovation, where the classic game spinner is reimagined for the digital age. Here, I combine the time-honored joy of anticipation with the precision of modern technology. This spinner isn’t just a tool; it’s a harmonious blend of design, mathematics, and computer science, all brought to life through the power of conversational coding with ChatGPT.

Check it out:

Features:

Programmatic Creation: Spinners are generated through Python code, leveraging ChatGPT’s conversational AI to refine the design and functionality. This ensures a seamless and efficient process from concept to creation.

Dynamic Spinner Size: The tool automatically adjusts the spinner’s size based on the participant list length. By parsing a comma or space-delimited string of names, it dynamically generates a spinner with the corresponding number of sectors, making it adaptable to various group sizes.

Mathematical Precision: Incorporates mathematical formulas to accurately determine the spinner’s winning sector based on degrees rotated. This not only enhances the fairness of the selection process but also introduces students to practical applications of geometry and arithmetic.

Engaging Sound Effects: The inclusion of sound effects and the potential for an AI-hosted voice add an auditory dimension to the experience, making the spinner more interactive and enjoyable.

Interdisciplinary Educational Tool: This project exemplifies interdisciplinary learning, combining elements of Language Arts (communicating ideas to AI), Computer Science (coding the spinner in Python and Scratch), MYP Design (creating a user-friendly interface), and Mathematics (applying geometric and arithmetic principles).

Accessibility and Integration: Designed to run in Google Colab, the spinner tool is accessible and easy to share, thanks to its integration with Google Drive. It requires no setup, making it readily available for educators and students.

Active Learning: Encourages active learning by allowing students to directly engage with coding concepts and see the immediate impact of their work. This hands-on experience is invaluable in reinforcing learning objectives and fostering a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

Conclusion:

The spinner is a bridge between the physical and digital.  This project is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary collaboration, demonstrating that with creativity, technical skill, and a bit of AI assistance, the possibilities for enhancing education are limitless.

My original Scratch project and code:
https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/970791967

My createSpinners Python code: