Hour of Code
From the desk of Leigh Ann . . .
“An understanding of computer science is becoming increasingly essential in today’s world. Our national competitiveness depends upon our ability to educate our children – and that includes our girls – in this critical field” – Sheryl Sandberg, Chief Operating Officer, Facebook
To develop globally competitive students who are prepared for 21st century success, we have to provide quality experiences working with technology. Exploring computer science is a great way to develop critical problem solving skills and provide students with opportunities to think logically and creatively. One way to open the door to this exploration is to participate in an Hour of Code. This opportunity was organized by a public non-profit organization that strives to make computer science available to more children. The Hour of Code is a quick and easy way to investigate the basics of computer coding. (Code is a collection of instructions written in computer language – like a recipe to follow.) The campaign began during computer Science Education Week in December, but it is not too late to participate.
Trust me – I am not the most tech savvy person, and I found this introduction to coding to be very user friendly and I was immediately hooked. My introduction to the Hour of Code came from two incredible educators who do know their way around the tech world and offer their students valuable opportunities to explore, create, and investigate on a daily basis. They set the stage by sharing tutorial videos, working through tasks collaboratively with their students, and facilitating quality discussions. When the children were ready, they were sent out in pairs to investigate on their own. Every team in the room was motivated, highly engaged, and eager to press on to the next level. They had a room filled with inspired students with no need for redirection – that was time well spent!
Two exemplary educators who know how to inspire – Stepahane Rogers and Karen House – Technology and Design Specialists
Want to inspire your students? Check this out : http://code.org/educate/inspire
Click on the links below to see more details about this global movement that is touching millions of students in countries all around the world.
http://http://hourofcode.com/us
http://http://www.tynker.com/hour-of-code/
To better prepare our students and truly make a difference, we need to help build a foundation for this 21st century career path. Today’s generation of students is ready to learn these critical skill for their future success.
