Learning Outcomes:
i. Understand the concept of decision-making in algorithms.
ii. Analyze algorithms involving comparisons and conditional statements.
iii. Develop logical reasoning skills through practical algorithmic examples.
iv. Write an algorithm to identify the largest of three given unequal numbers.
Introduction:
Remember those "choose your own adventure" stories where your decisions shaped the outcome? Well, algorithms can have their own mini-adventures too, where they make choices based on specific conditions! In this lesson, we'll explore the fascinating world of algorithmic decision-making, where instructions take a fork in the road and choose the best path forward. Get ready to sharpen your logical reasoning skills and witness algorithms making their own choices!
i. The Power of Choice:
Imagine a robot trying to choose the best route to deliver a pizza. It needs to compare different paths, analyze potential obstacles, and make a decision based on its findings. This is similar to an algorithm making a choice within its instructions. It uses conditional statements like "if" and "else" to compare different possibilities and pick the most suitable one.
ii. Unveiling the Algorithm:
Let's dive into a specific example: writing an algorithm to find the largest of three given numbers. Think of the numbers as three contestants vying for the "biggest" title. Here's how the algorithm can make its decision:
Start with three variables: These are like three boxes where we store the numbers. Name them "number1," "number2," and "number3."
Compare the first two: Imagine holding up number1 and number2 side by side. Use an "if" statement to check which one is greater.
Store the winner: If number1 is bigger, store it in a new variable called "largest." If number2 is bigger, store it in "largest" instead.
Challenge the champion: Now, compare the stored "largest" with number3. Use another "if" statement to check if any challenger is bigger.
Crown the true champion: If number3 is bigger, update the "largest" variable with its value. Otherwise, the previously stored number remains the winner.
Announce the victor: Finally, display the value of the "largest" variable, revealing the champion of the size contest!
iii. Decisions in Action:
Algorithmic decision-making isn't just about numbers! It's used in many real-world scenarios, like:
Traffic lights: They use sensors to compare vehicle flow and pedestrian presence, making decisions about when to change signals.
Online shopping recommendations: Recommendation algorithms compare your browsing history and preferences to suggest relevant products.
Spam filters: They analyze email content and sender information, making choices about what emails to deliver and what to mark as spam.
By understanding how algorithms make decisions, we gain a deeper appreciation for their power and versatility. Remember, the next time you see a robot navigate a maze, a self-driving car choose a lane, or even a search engine deliver relevant results, know that a hidden algorithm is making choices based on its programmed logic. So, keep your curiosity alive, embrace the power of decision-making algorithms, and watch as they guide us towards smarter solutions in the digital world and beyond!
