Using Platypus Activities

Platypus Activities offer a beginner-friendly, interactive way to learn coding. This update enhances design, usability, and support features for a better learning experience.

What Are Platypus Activities?

Platypus Activities use a cell-based coding interface to introduce students to programming. By removing the complexity of syntax, students can focus on logical thinking and problem-solving. This makes the activities particularly well-suited for late elementary learners, though the structured design also supports high school students who are new to coding.

These activities encourage computational thinking through interactive challenges, providing a strong foundation for students to build their coding skills step by step. With instant feedback and guided support, students can experiment, make mistakes, and learn through hands-on practice.

Why Use Platypus Activities?

Platypus Activities make coding accessible and engaging for students across different ages and experience levels. The interactive design keeps students actively involved while reinforcing problem-solving skills in a structured environment. Additionally, it introduces learners to Python syntax in a simplified way, allowing them to build foundational coding skills without the complexity of a traditional code editor.

One of the key benefits is the beginner-friendly approach, which simplifies coding concepts into clear, actionable steps. By breaking down programming logic into simple commands, students build confidence and develop essential computational thinking skills. Additionally, the platform’s versatility allows teachers to adapt the activities to different grade levels and learning objectives.

What’s New in This Update?

The latest update enhances the overall student experience by improving both usability and accessibility. Key improvements include:

  • Refreshed Visuals – New animations and UI updates for a modern, engaging learning experience

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  • AI Tutor Support – Built-in guidance that offers hints and troubleshooting help without giving the answer
  • Improved Accessibility – Enhanced screen reader support for a more inclusive learning experience
  • Refined UI & Interaction Design – Smoother navigation and improved usability for students

Accessing the Updated Platypus Activities

The update is applied automatically for new sections, making sure that all new students benefit from the improved features.

For existing sections:

  • No changes will be made automatically to prevent disruptions to ongoing learning
  • To update an existing section, contact Kira Support at support@kira-learning.com