#30DaysofLearning w/ @Raspberry_Pi - Figuring Things Out

I was worried on Day 2 that I might not be that into Python coding.  I just wasn't able to engage myself in the work of practicing the code.  My frown has been turned upside down.  All that I was missing was my Raspberry Pi!

After a few missed days of learning, I reinvested in the process and decided to spend some extended time on the project to see if I could get into the learning flow.  I spent almost 2 hours hooking back into my Pi, reading through some of my older screenshots, and then continuing the Instructables Class on Raspberry Pi (see my previous post for the link).

I learned a lot of new code.  I learned about connecting the Python Shell to the Linux Shell in the Raspberry Pi so that I can code in Python and affect the overall system.  I pushed the "Conversation" code to interact in Linux, and I launched a video stored on the Pi from the Python Shell.  I was feeling excited again.

Now I'm pumped!  I was feeling energized and wanted to do more.  I was asking myself questions to learn more about the code structures, and I used my resources to find the answers to most of my questions.  I still don't know what stopped me from accessing the pygame.mixer to play sounds, but that is a task for another day.  I was able to access the Pi Camera through the Python Shell and take a few pictures.  I even coded for increased brightness.  It wasn't always a perfect code, but I learned a lot from practicing.

I'm already thinking of ways to use this setup once it is done.  Of course I will create a photo booth as the class shows, but I also am thinking about a portable document scanner to document learning from around my district.  

I also learned about dealing with my frustration and boredom.  Finding new ways to engage int he work helped me.  I think I might have also been helped if I were learning this with someone.  (If anyone want to join me on this journey, feel free to reach out.)  

I have also been very aware of mental downtime (AKA Distraction/Off-task) and how it helps processing of new information, as well as providing some needed breathing room to alleviate frustration.  Do we do this enough for students?  Is there something that can change about a classroom's culture to account for the need for mental downtime and percolation time?