5.5.2 - Step 2: Start a New Project
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Opening MIT App Inventor
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Alright class, today we will learn how to start a new project in MIT App Inventor. First, let’s explore how to access the tool. Can anyone tell me where we need to go?
Is it the website with ai2.appinventor?
Exactly, Student_1! You'll go to `https://ai2.appinventor.mit.edu` and sign in using your Google account. This is important because it stores your projects in the cloud.
What if I don't have a Google account?
You will need one to sign in. It helps in managing your projects easily. Let’s take a moment for everyone to log in!
Okay, I'm logged in!
Great! Now, after logging in, you’ll see options to start a new project. Let’s move on to that.
Naming Your Project
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Now, let's talk about naming your project. Why do you think it’s important to choose a good name for your app?
So we can remember what it does later?
Exactly! A good name makes it easier to identify the purpose of the app. For instance, we will name our simple calculator app `CalculatorApp`. It’s straightforward and tells us exactly what it does.
Can we use any name we want?
Yes, but it’s best to keep it relevant. When you're creating multiple projects, it helps to have clarity in their names. Let’s brainstorm some other names for different types of apps!
Introduction & Overview
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Quick Overview
Standard
In this section, learners will discover the first steps to starting a new project in MIT App Inventor. The emphasis is on naming the project appropriately to reflect its purpose, which sets the stage for the development process of creating a simple calculator app.
Detailed
Starting a New Project in MIT App Inventor
When you are ready to create your first app, starting a new project is a crucial first step. In MIT App Inventor, follow these guidelines:
- Opening MIT App Inventor: Begin by visiting the MIT App Inventor website at
https://ai2.appinventor.mit.eduand signing in using your Google account. - Creating a New Project: Once logged in, click on 'Start New Project'.
- Naming Your Project: You will be prompted to enter a name for your project. For example, when creating a simple calculator app, name it
CalculatorApp. This name not only identifies your app but also reflects its functionality. - Significance of Project Naming: Choosing an appropriate name helps in managing and organizing multiple projects, especially as you advance in app development.
By thoughtfully naming your project, you begin building a structure for your app that will inspire development and creativity.
Audio Book
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Starting a New Project
Chapter 1 of 1
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Chapter Content
• Name it “CalculatorApp”.
Detailed Explanation
In this first step of starting a new project, you will need to give your project a name. In this case, the project is named 'CalculatorApp'. The name you choose is important because it helps you identify the app later on, especially when you have multiple projects. Think of it like naming a book before you write it; it gives you a focus and an objective.
Examples & Analogies
Imagine you are starting a new painting. Before you dip your brush into the paint, you decide the title of your masterpiece. This title not only inspires you but also sets the direction for the kind of painting you will create, much like how naming your project gives it purpose.
Key Concepts
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MIT App Inventor: A user-friendly platform for mobile app development.
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Project Naming: The relevance of giving your project an intuitive name.
Examples & Applications
Naming an app 'Weather Tracker' clearly conveys its function.
Choosing 'To-Do List Organizer' helps users understand its purpose immediately.
Memory Aids
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Rhymes
Before you start, be smart, choose a name that's a work of art!
Stories
Imagine a student who built an app called 'Math Magician'. Friends loved the name because it made them excited to use it!
Memory Tools
When naming your project, use P-C: Purpose and Clarity.
Acronyms
N.A.M.E
Necessary App Management Efficiency.
Flash Cards
Glossary
- MIT App Inventor
A web-based application development environment that uses a visual blocks-based interface to create apps for Android devices.
- Project Name
A title given to your app project which reflects its purpose and functionality.
Reference links
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