Using GeoGebra with Python by Samantha Garcia

The speaker begins by expressing excitement at the turnout and introduces themselves, mentioning their history as a teacher for 11 years. They have transitioned from teaching full time to teaching robotics part-time at Freedom Shores three days a week. The speaker shares their journey of attending a workshop in Tennessee, which led to their decision to go back to school for electrical engineering while interning at Sirus XM. They also discuss their previous teaching experience, which includes teaching coding and AP Computer Science. The speaker clarifies that they do not intend to cover the entire book on the first day and encourages a workshop-style learning experience where attendees can progress at their own pace.

The speaker provides instructions on how to access the book titled 'GeoGebra Python' by visiting a specific URL and highlights that the link is case sensitive. They mention that the book is also accessible from the conference page. The speaker discusses the web-based nature of GeoGebra Python, contrasting it with traditional Python installations that allow library imports. They explain how to create a new blank project in GeoGebra Python and how to save work for future access. The speaker also addresses a question about how the website recognizes users, expressing uncertainty and promising to find out more.

The speaker guides the audience through using GeoGebra Python, starting with accessing sample programs and creating new ones. They demonstrate how to modify existing code and save changes, encouraging experimentation with the code to understand its functionality. The speaker emphasizes the importance of starting with simple coding concepts, using the example of creating a square and gradually adding complexity. They also discuss strategies for teaching coding to children, advocating for a scaffolding approach that starts with basic concepts before introducing more complex ideas.

The speaker focuses on creating geometric shapes using GeoGebra Python, starting with the creation of points and segments. They demonstrate how to use the 'import ggb' command to utilize the GeoGebra library in Python and explore the available commands. The speaker then guides the audience through creating a square using points and segments, emphasizing the importance of counterclockwise order when naming polygons. They also discuss methods for making points invisible and the significance of using comments in code to explain the code's functionality.

The speaker discusses the importance of debugging in coding, using an example of a syntax error caused by incorrect use of a comma. They demonstrate how to use the console log to identify and fix errors, emphasizing the value of understanding error messages. The speaker also touches on the concept of abstraction in coding, explaining how simplifying code can make it easier to read and maintain.

The speaker introduces the concept of loops in Python, demonstrating how to use loops to repeat actions efficiently. They provide examples of using loops to print numbers and create points for a square, emphasizing the flexibility of loops in coding. The speaker also discusses the importance of using descriptive variable names to enhance code readability and maintainability.

The speaker advances to using loops for creating complex shapes, specifically focusing on drawing a square using a loop. They explore different methods, including using nested loops and the rotate command, to simplify the coding process. The speaker also introduces the concept of importing the math library to perform calculations, such as converting degrees to radians for rotations.

The speaker continues the discussion on creating shapes with loops by introducing lists to store points and the use of the append command to add points to a list. They demonstrate how to create a polygon using points from a list, emphasizing the efficiency of using lists and loops over creating separate commands for each point. The speaker also highlights the importance of debugging and the role of the print command in verifying the contents of a list.

The speaker reflects on the debugging process, emphasizing the importance of letting students figure out problems on their own as part of the learning experience. They discuss the iterative nature of coding and debugging, suggesting that students should be encouraged to make mistakes and learn from them. The speaker also touches on the concept of abstraction and the use of functions to simplify complex code.

The speaker praises Python for its versatility and ease of use, mentioning its applicability in various projects, from robotics to game development. They also highlight the importance of indentation in Python, explaining how it affects code execution and the potential issues that can arise from incorrect indentation.

In the final part of the script, the speaker invites feedback and provides resources for further learning. They mention the ongoing development of GeoGebra Python and the availability of documentation. The speaker also shares contact information for themselves and others involved in the project, encouraging questions and suggestions to improve the tool.