# cartoon_network

This is a simple and fun neural network simulator.  It lets students of nearly any age playfully explore how small sets of neurons can produce complex and interesting behaviors.  Also, the simulator can be connected to a Finch robots.

To get started:
* Download cartoon_network.jar from the files posted here to github
** https://raw.githubusercontent.com/rcalinjageman/cartoon_network/master/cartoon_network.jar
* Double-click the jar file to open it (your computer will need an up-to-date version of Java installed).
* Click 'a' to enter add mode, then click around the screen to add more neurons.
* Click 'x' to enter excite mode, then click a neuron to excite it
* Click the top-left corner to bring down a menu of all modes, and explore
* Download the handout which provides instructions and a set of guided challenges for students to explore.

Some resources:
* Check out this video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_M4_F9M2ODc
* There is also a powerpoint file here on github that walks you through the basics


Want to connect to a FINCH robot? 
* The robots are available here: 
** http://www.finchrobot.com/