Umeå University's logo

This paper covers the bachelor thesis project at Umeå Institute of Design in collaboration with Hello Ruby and help from science center Curiosum in Umeå during the spring semester 2024. The report outlines the entire process, starting with the background of the project, which addresses the need to introduce basic programming concepts to children in a fun, playful, and accessible manner, aiming to demystify technology and make it accessible to young minds. The goal is to create something that through playground scenarios and intuitive solutions, can allow children to engage in simple coding while participating in play, creating an environment where they can naturally explore and learn basic datalogic thinking. Partnerships with Hello Ruby and the Science Center Curiosum in Umeå were instrumental in shaping the project's direction, facilitating close collaboration and workshops with the target audience. The project's goals include fostering creativity and logical thinking in children through the integration of basic programming concepts into playground activities, as well as increasing interest in programming, particularly among those not traditionally drawn to computer education materials. The report follows the Double Diamond design process, comprising four phases: Discover, Define, Develop, and Deliver. The reslut introduces a wall-mounted "activity system" for playgrounds, fostering computational thinking and casual learning through sand play. Emphasizing open exploration, it encourages children to test ideas, troubleshoot, and learn cause and effect. With values of inclusive design and accessibility for children with diverse needs, promoting imaginative play and skill development in a diverse age range. The system's modularity allows for expansion and customization, to suit specific need for the playground in question, accommodating various logical concepts and potential for additional components. Through playful interaction with sand, children develop problemsolving skills, making the project a valuable asset in promoting creativity and cognitive development in playground environments.