Build Your Own Computer

Gone are the days of needing corporate backers and angel investors to create something new. Kano, a build your own computer kit started off in Kickstarter and now has it’s own website and online store. The Kano is a fully functioning PC that students put together by snapping components into place (think advanced LEGOS). Each Kano Kit includes a Raspberry Pi computer board, plug in speaker, a Bluetooth keyboard, HDMI and USB cables, USB Wi-Fi dongle, power plug, clear plastic case, and 8GB memory card.

Students build the Kano, plug everything in, and power it up. They are prompted to enter a name and the Kano runs through an initial set up with a software update. Once everything is set, Kano introduces students to coding using a modular visual programming approach similar to CODE.org. Students click on blocks and drag them into their coding windows as if they are building a jigsaw puzzle. To keep students engaged, Kano awards badges and allows customization features such as new characters and backgrounds for their digital guide. Kano slowly ramps up in difficulty so teacher assistance may be needed along the way.