Computer Science Education Week, December 7-13, 2020, is an annual call to action to inspire K-12 students to learn computer science, advocate for equity in computer science education, and celebrate the contributions of students, teachers, and partners to the field. Hour of Code is a one-hour introduction to computer programming designed to demystify computer science and show that anybody can learn the basics of coding.
Over the past year, Quaker Valley computer science and technology teachers Paul Bodura, Tom Demko, and Peter May, and science and technology coach Sandra Calgaro, participated in numerous professional development sessions as part of a K-8 PA Smart Grant sponsored by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. They set school and district goals for expanding computer science access to all students, explored issues around equity and diversity, examined grade-level appropriate tools and platforms, developed projects that can be integrated into other subject areas, and encouraged high school students to further their coding skills by taking Dr. Darren Mariano’s introductory and advanced programming electives and AP Computer Science course. Furthermore, they are having their students again join with more than 100 million students worldwide to participate in Hour of Code activities during computer class.
During Hour of Code, students will learn basic coding skills and explore options to extend their learning well beyond the hour. The computer science activities they complete will help nurture their creativity and problem-solving skills, and by getting a feel for computational thinking early, students will have a foundation for success in any future career path. In addition, students will have many other opportunities during the school year to write programs, solve coding puzzles, design games and mobile apps, and program robots to perform tasks and solve problems.
If you would like to learn more about Hour of Code and Computer Science Education Week or try some coding activities yourself, you are encouraged to visit csedweek.org, hourofcode.com/us/learn, and khanacademy.org/hourofcode.