Programming Kaleidoscopes
Project Description
For the Programming Kaleidoscopes project, we had to create a moving, possibly animated pattern using the code techniques we learned about through Khan Academy's Computer Programming course. This Khan Academy course involved an introduction to JavaScript, which is one form of a computer's operating system and how it is able to run on a specific program. Using rigid transformations–which we explored in through geometric lessons in math–we were able to code certain shapes, symbols and patterns on Khan Academy. Below, you will find the initial sketch of my kaleidoscope, and my Khan Academy version, too. Enjoy!
For the Programming Kaleidoscopes project, we had to create a moving, possibly animated pattern using the code techniques we learned about through Khan Academy's Computer Programming course. This Khan Academy course involved an introduction to JavaScript, which is one form of a computer's operating system and how it is able to run on a specific program. Using rigid transformations–which we explored in through geometric lessons in math–we were able to code certain shapes, symbols and patterns on Khan Academy. Below, you will find the initial sketch of my kaleidoscope, and my Khan Academy version, too. Enjoy!
Project Reflection
When I was involved in the process of actually learning code, I have to admit, it was not always easy. Sometimes I spent hours just to finish certain topics, and even after searching the web for spin-offs and other versions of different concepts, and had to be extremely patient to find success. From the coding portion of the project to the implementation of our kaleidoscope, there was a surprisingly smooth road in transitioning. At first, I could only figure out how to create one quarter of my image because of my prior knowledge in computer programming. However, with help from a few classmates, I was able to make a loop function for displaying my image on all four panels of the canvas. Over the course of creating my kaleidoscope, I most enjoyed the freedom we were given in being able to be creative with our art. I call it art because it really was a project where self-expression was key in incorporating a variety of geometric concepts. Without a sense of pride in our work, I doubt the kaleidoscopes would even be half as good as they turned out to be. I really like the kaleidoscope I was able to make because it involves a neat design, yet it features an aura of complexity, too. If I could do this project differently, there are definitely a few things I would want to change. For one, I might have spent a little more time outside of school exploring spin-offs, challenges and videos related to this topic so I could be a little more adventurous in my artistic choices. While I felt like I expanded my comfort zone as far as coding went during the process of making my kaleidoscope, there were a few design decisions I could have changed. I could have coded the concentric squares on the four corners to change different colors than the rest of the shapes, or I could have tried to rotate the black diamond on the outside. However, everyone has regrets about their work when they finished, and I feel that I am really satisfied with the work I was able to put out as part of the Kaleidoscopes Project.