I am getting ready to author a series of tutorials on bootstrapping Forth starting with a "blank" microprocessor.<p>I am doing this as a microprocessor and programming fundamentals mini-course for my son's FRC [0] (FIRST Robotics Competition) club.<p>The intent is to teach basic digital logic and programming at the lowest possible level as a solid foundation for development at higher levels. Almost any modern language becomes easier to understand once armed with an understanding of low level concepts.<p>I am looking for input on how to approach it. I've done seminars for working engineers in the past. In this case I have to assume no prior knowledge of any of the material to be presented. At a basic level three approaches come to mind:<p><pre><code> - Text based. You have to read it. Slides.
- Video lectures. I present on video while showing relevant slides.
- Interactive. Like video lectures. Uses a real-time recording of
terminal window much more so than pure text slides.
</code></pre>
Of course, I'll design and build a little microprocessor board the students will use during the course. Not decided on architecture/processor yet. On simple 8 bit embedded projects I've tended to use various 8051 derivatives. This is one option. I've also used parts from Microchip, TI, Freescale, Cypress and others.<p>Thanks!<p>[0] http://www.usfirst.org/roboticsprograms/frc
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or stack in HP 12c calculator
I'd favor video lectures. What you're proposing is pretty ambitious for teen learners, so (posted) videos will allow them to rewatch them, pause to take notes, etc. Good luck!