There is a national push to have more students learn how to Code, which involves writing in and manipulating different computer languages. The push comes from the opportunities that it provides to students in the new "tech" world that we live in. Not only does it teach them computer languages, but it also reinforces problem solving skills, critical thinking, and collaboration while providing students applicable skills they will need in the real world.
Next week, December 8 - 14, is Computer Science Education Week. Bedford students in grades K-12 will have the opportunity to take part in the Hour of Code, which is a global event designed to introduce students to and excite them about computer science by demystifying code as students take part in an hour long interactive hands-on approach to computer science. The Hour of Code is sponsored by Code.org, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting computer science in schools. Their web site states, "Our vision is that every student should have the opportunity to learn computer science. We believe computer science and computer programming should be part of the core curriculum in education, alongside other science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) courses, such as biology, physics, chemistry and algebra."
The Hour of Code is a highly anticipated event. JGMS 7th and 8th graders will take part during their Tech Ed classes and 6th graders will have the opportunity to participate during their Directed Study. We are very excited to be participating in the Hour of Code as a district and will be looking for ways to continue to enhance students’ learning K-12 through programming/coding in the future.
For information check out these links:
http://hourofcode.com/us
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nKIu9yen5nc#t=10