Computers talk to each other over the internet via messages. However, the internet is not reliable and sometimes these messages get lost. There are certain bits of information we can add to messages to make sure they are sent. This information makes up a protocol.
In this activity, students consider how different methods of communication operate successfully. By looking at rules and procedures in place, students are introduced to communication protocols. Students work through a role-play scenario and test their own protocol operating in an unreliable environment similar to that found in packet switching on the Internet, specifically, TCP/ IP. Students will discover through this activity that there are certain protocols which must be in place so that computers communicate successfully.
