Between academic expectations, social dynamics, and external factors, students experience a substantial amount of stress on a daily basis. On top of this, young learners’ minds are constantly growing, facing novel experiences and adapting to changes in the environment.

Without the coping skills to process and persist through these stressors and changes, individuals may struggle academically, socially, and emotionally. To support student mental health, schools must equip them with the necessary resources and skills to build resilience––a vital skill that helps learners face challenges and learn from failures.

Why It’s Important to Foster Student Resilience

Resilience is the ability to recover and persevere after challenging experiences, viewing setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than failures. Resilient individuals maintain the mental and emotional courage to cope with difficult experiences.

Resilience is linked to motivation, which makes it an important quality for students to develop in their learning. Resilient students maintain initiative and a positive attitude and sustain academic performance despite the presence of stressful events or conditions. By fostering student resilience, schools can help prepare learners for the future, helping them manage both personal and academic setbacks with composure and self-confidence.

How Game-Based Learning Supports Student Resilience

Game-based learning offers an engaging, but low-pressure pathway for students to build resilience. Because games involve overcoming obstacles, learning from mistakes, and strategizing to succeed, the skills used in game-based activities align with the traits of resilient individuals.

When students participate in game-based learning, they are encouraged to take risks, solve problems, and persist through challenges. In addition, game-based learning helps students develop emotional regulation as they practice managing their frustration, sustaining motivation, and refocusing after setbacks.

As they are met with increasingly difficult problems or tasks, students adapt their strategies and mindset to persist through challenges and recover when they fail. By progressing through fun, but low-stakes challenges in a game environment, students cultivate the kind of growth mindset that helps them become more resilient.

The Importance of Resilience in Computer Science

In the field of computer science, engineers and programmers must constantly trial and modify their work to find solutions to coding, robotics, and engineering problems. While it is a necessary part of the job, failure is inevitable in computer science professions, so it is particularly important for individuals who pursue this field to be resilient.

When students learn computer science through a game-based platform like CoderZ, they are participating in the same process of trial, error, and modification that real-world computer science professionals do every day. Although students solve problems virtually, they gain real-world skills that will support their continued education and future careers.

Fostering Student Resilience with Game-Based Computer Science

CoderZ introduces students to virtual coding and robotics, requiring them to complete coding challenges, debug errors, and create functional virtual robots. Each of these tasks requires critical thinking, creativity, and perseverance––all of which are key competencies that help students build resilience.

Learning computer science in a game-based environment empowers students to be confident and take creative risks as they work to tackle complex problems. When students learn a new coding or robotics skill through CoderZ, they experience the satisfaction of developing their own creation, finding solutions to challenges, and seeing their work come to life. As they reach higher levels of mastery, learners build more confidence, which strengthens their belief that they can overcome increasingly complex challenges in the future.

Game-based computer science programs are a powerful tool for fostering resilient learners, equipping them with essential skills that enhance both their learning and wellbeing. Students who cultivate resilience through programs like CoderZ not only grow academically but are also better prepared to face the challenges of higher education and future careers with self-confidence, adaptability, and perseverance.

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Educational video games offer students an opportunity to learn or practice curriculum and other educational content while playing a fun virtual game. This educational approach, known as game-based learning, turns the excitement and challenges of a video game into a learning activity. In contrast to the recreational video games students might play at home, game-based learning aligns with educational objectives––while still leveraging learners’ natural desire for play and achievement.

Here are five benefits of game-based learning:

1. Improved cognitive development

Studies suggest that playing video games may be associated with better cognitive performance, particularly when exercising impulse control and working memory. Educational video games require learners to solve complex problems, think critically, and make quick decisions. As learners repeatedly utilize these skills, they can experience improvements to memory, attention span, and spatial reasoning.

2. Higher student engagement and motivation

Game-based learning is an effective way to make the curriculum more dynamic and infuse fun into the classroom. Through a series of challenges, virtual badges or rewards, and opportunities to level-up, educational video games leverage intrinsic motivation to keep students engaged in the content. When students enjoy the game, they are playing––including the platform, challenges, and gameplay––they remain engaged and keep playing, ultimately leading to positive educational outcomes.

At CoderZ, our gamified courses utilize bite-size missions and an immersive virtual robotics experience to engage students in a wide range of concepts and skills, including computer science, math, geometry, and critical life skills.

3. Greater accessibility for diverse learners

For students with diverse learning needs, game-based learning can provide an accessible opportunity to engage with educational content. While some students struggle to stay focused during lectures, video games may actually enhance focus and concentration abilities. Furthermore, students move at their own pace in video games, progressing only once they’ve completed a mission. CoderZ courses are designed for self-paced learning, with real-time helpful feedback and a scaffolded approach. Plus, all you need to start learning is a Wi-Fi connection, making CoderZ accessible for everyone, anywhere.

4. Enhanced peer connections and collaboration

Competition comes naturally when students are playing video games, and game-based learning is no different. Learning how to participate in healthy and respectful competition is a valuable skill for students of all ages. Whether playing single- or multi-player games, students can develop critical social skills when gaming, including communication, cooperation, leadership, and empathy.

Students’ social aptitudes are further enhanced when they work as a team in a gamified environment. For instance, CoderZ League is a virtual robotics competition that unifies learners to work toward a common goal. Through a series of competitive team challenges, students gain valuable collaboration skills and self-confidence––all while learning about coding and having fun!

5. Better learning outcomes

Well-designed educational video games can lead to improved retention and understanding of educational content. To ensure an effective implementation of game-based learning, educators should select programs that are designed with learning outcomes in mind. CoderZ was created by educators for educators, and aligns to CSTA and NGSS standards. Our award-winning STEM courses put learning first, yet kids love our fun and engaging gamified coding platform just like any other video game.

By leveraging the power of educational video games, educators can create a more dynamic and effective learning environment. Game-based learning provides students with skills and knowledge that will benefit them from kindergarten to career.

Learn more about how CoderZ empowers students through game-based learning here.

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The recent growth of AI in many industries has solved countless problems, opening doors to innovation and efficiency like never before. However, the rapid advancement of AI has led to the emergence of new challenges, including growing barriers to entry as technology outpaces already limited access to computer science education.

As AI evolves, students, educators, and institutions will have to adapt in order to meet the needs of a technology-driven world. Here are three ways AI will impact computer science education and careers:

1. Computer science is becoming an essential K-12 subject for student success.

With AI becoming an indispensable technology in many industries, computer science has become an essential school subject for students to master in order to succeed in the modern workforce.

However, only 30 states have adopted policies that require high schools to provide students with access to computer science education. In other states and in grades below high school, computer science tends to be a minor part of the curriculum and is typically only offered to a small subset of students.

Fortunately, abundant access to generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini has introduced many students to this emerging technology, sparking new interests and nurturing student curiosity. Plus, the ubiquity of these tools has given computer science initiatives like CSforALL and Code.org additional leverage to advocate for increased graduation requirements and standards in K-12 computer science education.

Schools can cultivate students’ growing interest in AI by connecting them to programs like CoderZ, where learners can begin to develop their coding skills. Our free 3-hour Amazon Cyber Robotics Challenge makes an introduction to coding accessible, regardless of the school’s current computer science curriculum (or lack thereof). Once students step into the world of computer science and programming, they are able to build valuable skills for future educational endeavors and careers.

2. AI will replace human tasks, but not jobs.

A common concern people have with AI is the idea that it could make human jobs irrelevant and lead to widespread layoffs. While AI may minimize the need for certain jobs, those jobs will be replaced with other human jobs.

AI will automate routine and repetitive tasks, allowing workers to focus on more creative, strategic, and complex tasks that machines are unable to perform. Workers will learn to use AI to their advantage to remove time-consuming, mundane tasks from their workload and complete their jobs more efficiently.

In addition to reshaping current jobs, AI will create new job opportunities, especially in the field of computer science. In order to develop and control AI technologies, organizations will need to hire skilled workers with coding, artificial intelligence, and robotics educational backgrounds. These jobs will be essential to training and maintaining AI systems for decades to come.

3. Economic disparities in computer science education will deepen.

AI offers significant potential to reshape education as a whole, but it may also amplify existing economic disparities in regard to computer science education. As AI technologies emerge, economic barriers to educational opportunities will negatively impact disadvantaged districts who already have limited access to computer science curriculum and programs.

Schools and districts with access to ample funding and resources will be able to implement cutting-edge computer science curriculum to introduce students to emerging AI technologies. However, economically disadvantaged districts will fall behind without the funding, trained teachers, and technology to provide students with access to computer science education. When students from these districts reach college, they will be behind their peers who had greater access to computer science opportunities during their K-12 education.

CoderZ helps schools expand their computer science curriculum, allowing students to explore and master coding and robotics concepts virtually. This makes it possible for schools with limited resources to introduce students to computer science topics that traditionally have a large upfront cost for in-person tools and hardware.

Additionally, CoderZ provides a comprehensive computer science curriculum that can be taught by teachers of all backgrounds, even those with no experience in STEM, coding, or robotics. We also offer a one-of-a-kind online professional development program that equips teachers with the tools and training necessary to prepare students for ever-emerging technological developments.

While AI will continue to reshape education and substantially impact most job sectors, this technology has the power to transform the world around us and create endless opportunities for innovation. Equipping students with the skills and knowledge to navigate an AI-driven workforce is key to their long-term success.

Contact us today to get a quote and demo and learn more about how computer science education can positively impact students in your school or district.

The post 3 Ways AI will Impact Computer Science Education and Careers appeared first on CoderZ.

When Tiffany Benitez started her school’s STEM and robotics club, four Galena Park Independent School District students signed up for it. She was a teacher at the time, and the group’s size quickly doubled to eight as more students learned about the opportunity. Soon, this district elementary science specialist’s robotics capabilities were maxed out.

The Challenge
“I only had two robots, so even if kids pleaded to join the club, we just couldn’t accommodate them,” said Tiffany Benitez, Galena Park ISD’s District Elementary Science Specialist.
The Solution
“With CoderZ, all of our students now have the opportunity to learn computer coding, and that positively impacts equity,” said Benitez. “There’s no more having to say, ‘No, our club is full.’
The Result
Several of Galena Park ISD’s campuses use CoderZ in their technology enrichment classes and others have a weekly “enrichment hour” scheduled with campus digital learning and assessment coordinators.

Click Here to Download a PDF of this Case Study

During the spring of 2020, Galena Park ISD invited 15 students to join the club based on their teachers’
recommendations, grades, and conduct. Within just a few weeks, the club’s size reached 50 kids. At that
point, Benitez knew she needed to find an innovative way to accommodate that thirst for STEM and robotics knowledge, and one that didn’t require the district to purchase 50+ robots.

Benitez, who didn’t like seeing four students “standing around” while the other two worked on the physical robots said, “Most of the students were bystanders who weren’t involved or learning.”

Breaking Down the Barriers
Benitez learned about the CoderZ K-12 computer science virtual robotics platforms when her district
participated in the Amazon Cyber Robotics Challenge and used the LEGO EV3 robot, for which CoderZ offered a virtual version.

“I just keep adding and adding new students,” said Benitez. “Multiply that across all 15 schools and it’s clear just how impactful the virtual robotics platform has been for the school district.”

“The students were able to actually see the robot that they were programming on their screens. They just felt like they didn’t miss a beat and they weren’t being left out,” Benitez said. “They loved the experience.”

Thanks to CoderZ’s innovative online learning environment, Galena Park ISD’s students are learning how to program real and virtual robots using 3D robotics simulation. Benitez no longer has to cap her club’s capacity, which means more kids are getting the hands-on, 21st century skills that they’ll need for college and career.

Increasing Equity in K-12
For the 2021-22 school year Galena Park ISD opened up the robotics club to students in grades K-5. This helped level the playing field for kids who may not otherwise be exposed to technical education in a district where the student population is 79.3% Hispanic and 15.2% African American.

The district’s STEM/robotics program has a vision of creating opportunities for inspiring young people to be STEM leaders by engaging them in programs that build STEM skills that inspire innovation and foster well–rounded life capabilities including higher-order thinking, self–confidence, communication, and leadership.

“All of our students now have the opportunity to learn computer coding, and that positively impacts equity,” said Benitez. “There’s no more having to say, ‘No, our club is full’ or watching students stand around while their classmates work on the physical robots.”

A Platform that Teachers & Students Love

The first time Benitez used CoderZ she was impressed by how easy the platform was to use. It provided
lessons that she could use, plus missions and challenges for the students. Having resources in her corner
helps Benitez created engaging lessons for her expanding robotics club. When you’re using robotics hands-on, you have to create the lesson in a way that keeps pushing students, challenging them, and increasing the difficulty levels.

“Now, CoderZ does that for us instantly,” said Benitez. “As a teacher, I love the pacing that it provides for the students. I no longer have to do that. It was done for me via the program’s own curriculum.”

CoderZ also regularly asks for feedback and input on the platform, knowing that teachers are an integral part of the program success. “CoderZ is always supportive and helpful when we need them,” said Benitez, who likes the platform’s scoreboard, where students can see how they measure up against their peers and other groups.

“They love to try to get out in front and lead,” said Benitez, “but they also really like being able to help each other and the leaderboard gives them the data they need to be able to contribute on that level.”

This especially important for soft skill development, which is yet another benefit of using CoderZ. Students learn how to naturally coach and encourage one another—skills that translate well in college and the workforce.

“The peer coaching is so wonderful to see because they can apply that to other subject areas, like math, reading, and science,” Benitez explained. “Students support one another because they want to see their classmates get to that next challenge.”

The knowledge attained through computer coding also aligns with other subjects that students take in school. For instance, coding, programming, and sequencing are all used in math for measurement. The platform also encourages the natural “tinkerers” to get in there and figure out tough problems by testing theories and hypotheses. These skills are valuable in science classes and other subjects.

The virtual nature of CoderZ also encourages experimentation without any negative consequences. It also provides mini tutorial videos with step-by-step instructions for the often-complex engineering design process. This helps prep students for college and career success in engineering fields.

“There are just so many places where they’ll be able to apply this type of engineering knowledge, problem solving, and critical thinking,” said Benitez.

Relishing the Chance to Compete

Several of Galena ISD’s campuses have used CoderZ in their technology enrichment classes and others have a weekly “enrichment hour” scheduled with campus digital learning and assessment coordinators. “They use CoderZ during that time with our K-5 students,” said Benitez, who sees this as yet another way for schools to incorporate the platform into their school day.

In some cases, those campus initiatives have turned into competition among the participating campuses. The students love it, with the elementary schools (which don’t have sports teams) really enjoying the competitive nature of the platform. “We have a spelling bee, a geography bee, a STEM competition and several math competitions,” said Benitez. “They all have so much school pride, so they really relish the opportunity to compete against other campuses.”

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Demand for skilled STEM occupations is growing rapidly around the country, and especially in Texas where the government estimates these roles will make up 10.5% of total state employment. As a long-time leader in the technology sector, it’s not a surprise to see Texas at the forefront of this national trend. As an Intelitek subsidiary, CoderZ has the opportunity to help educators around the world prepare students for these lucrative and engaging careers. That’s why we have built new courses from the ground up, specifically for Texas educators. 

With full alignment to the revised TEKS for Technology Applications and robust teacher support for interdisciplinary lessons, these courses make it easy for educators to integrate computer science into core subject learning, and flexible implementation options such as Spanish language support give schools and teachers the resources they need to build a strong foundation for technical and engineering career pathways that expand opportunities for all students.   

What Are the New TEKS for Technology Applications and Why They Are Important 

Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) are the curriculum standards for all public schools in Texas.  Initiated in 2011, the Technology Applications TEKS cover what students should know and be able to do in technology. In response to the increasing reach of technology in every aspect of life, Texas revised Tech Apps TEKS for the 2024-2025 school year.  These new standards better reflect the computational thinking and data analysis required in this growing field, as well as overarching skills like communication and collaboration.  

The new TEKS for Tech App standards are an important part of ensuring students have equitable access to high-quality computer science education. As AI and countless smart technologies impact more aspects of our everyday lives, we must prepare young people to fully comprehend the impact of these technologies, both for themselves and for the benefit of our wider society. While these standards are designed to give students strong economic opportunities in an increasingly technological workforce, they also provide students with the ability to engage with technology for personal fulfillment or as critical consumers and informed citizens, giving Texan students a jump start on building better futures for themselves and their communities.  

How CoderZ’s Lessons Align to TEKS for Technology Applications 

CoderZ courses have always provided students with a strong foundation in the principles of robotics and computing, but our new courses go further in completely aligning to TEKS for Technology Applications at each grade level, incorporating crucial topics such as digital citizenship, emerging technologies, and data analysis. In addition, all courses include TEKS-aligned ELAR and Mathematics extensions. Below are examples of courses for grades 3-6. 

Grade 3  

CoderZ Adventure: Trailblazers introduces elementary students to the basics of computing and robotics through a gamified environment in which students program a robot to explore virtual worlds. Fully aligned to Grade 3 TEKS for Technology Applications, the course covers coding fundamentals such as sensors, loops, conditionals, and variables, as well as broader problem solving, design, and analysis skills.  

• Fundamentals of robot systems 
• Coding with loops and conditionals 
• Planning and problem solving 
• Geometry and data analysis 
• Technology impacts and digital literacy 

Grade 4  

CoderZ Adventure: New Worlds builds on what students have learned in Trailblazers, as the virtual robot explores new environments that incorporate more advanced computing and robotics concepts. Aligned to Grade 4 TEKS for Technology Applications, the course reviews the topics covered in Trailblazers and introduces new ways for the robot to interact with increasingly complex and unpredictable environments.  

Robotics and automation 

• Coding with procedures and events 
• Data and analysis 
• Critical thinking with debugging 
• Physics and mechanics 
• Digital security and ethics 

Grade 5  

CoderZ Code Farm: Breaking Ground introduces upper elementary students to the fundamentals of computing and robotics. Students navigate a virtual robot through agricultural-themed missions as they learn coding basics such as sensors, loops, and conditionals. Fully aligned to Grade 5 TEKS for Technology Applications, the course goes beyond programming to incorporate a wide range of problem solving, design, and analytical skills.  

• Robotics and automation 
• Coding with loops and conditionals 
• User centered design and accessibility 
• Problem solving and debugging 
• Collaboration and communication 
• Digital literacy and ethics 

Grade 6  

CoderZ Code Farm: Growing Season builds on what students have learned in Breaking Ground, going deeper into more advanced topics that incorporate new sensors and more complex missions. Aligned to Grade 6 TEKS for Technology Applications, the course reviews the topics covered in Breaking Ground and introduces new concepts such as sensor-based navigation and optimizing for speed and accuracy.  

Navigational sensors such as gyroscopes 

• Collaborative problem solving 
• Impacts of emerging technologies 
• Data management and representation 

Contact us to learn more about how we can help
transform student engagement in STEM

The Benefits of Partnership 

CoderZ is much more than an engaging computer science platform. It is a company of people dedicated to supporting the entire ecosystem of students, teachers, classrooms, schools, and districts. Our school and district partners value our dedicated customer success team and the equitable, engaging, collaborative nature of CoderZ’s instructional model. This model supports TEKS standards across all subject areas in several ways: 

• Turn-Key Solution: Our platform, curricular resources, and professional development all work together to ensure districts, schools, and teachers have everything they need to provide a high-quality learning experience for students.  
• Building Students’ Resilience: While the kids are learning, they are having fun! Because students enjoy the gamified learning environment, they are motivated to solve the mission, and keep trying until they succeed. This is the foundation of building a growth mindset when they approach any new subject. 
• Brings Collaboration and Creativity to the forefront of our curriculum and support the development of students’ career readiness skills. Collaboration and creativity are both an important part of ELAR and Tech Apps standards. 
• Interdisciplinary Learning Is Built In: While many other coding programs try to simplify content for students by removing math, science, and reading instruction, CoderZ’s curriculum is designed to support student learning across all subject areas.  

Contact us to learn more about how we can help
transform student engagement in STEM

The post CoderZ Launches New TEKS Aligned Computer Science Curriculum for Grades 3-8 appeared first on CoderZ.

In our interconnected world, effective communication is key. For English as a Second Language (ESL) and English Language Learners (ELL), the journey to proficiency can be challenging. However, computer science emerges as a powerful tool, not just for coding and algorithms, but as a bridge that spans linguistic barriers.  

In this blog, we explore how computer science education can empower ESL and ELL learners, fostering language development, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of the digital landscape, as well as discuss some of the elements included in learning to code. 

Visual Language of Coding

Computer programming languages have a universal appeal – they are visual and structured. When ESL and ELL learners engage in coding, they grasp concepts through a visual and logical medium. The syntax of coding languages becomes a language, providing a unique way to understand and express ideas. This visual aspect can aid language comprehension, allowing learners to translate abstract concepts into tangible results. 

Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking

Computer science is fundamentally about problem-solving and critical thinking. As ESL and ELL learners navigate coding challenges, they are not just mastering code but honing essential cognitive skills. These skills transcend language barriers, offering a platform for learners to think analytically and logically. This cognitive development can enhance overall language proficiency and academic success. 

Real-World Applications

Computer science is deeply rooted in real-world applications. By engaging in projects related to their interests, ESL and ELL learners can connect abstract concepts with practical scenarios. This hands-on approach allows them to apply language skills in a meaningful context, making language acquisition more relevant and enjoyable. 

Collaborative Learning Environments

Computer science education often encourages collaboration. If you utilize a competition like those offered through CoderZ’s League in a Box, ESL and ELL learners gain the opportunity to engage in language-rich discussions.  

Furthermore, CoderZ’s lesson plans are translated and offer activities that encourage students to think about and discuss computer science outside of just tinkering and playing with the platform, and learning code. Explaining code, brainstorming solutions, and providing feedback necessitate effective communication. The collaborative nature of computer science fosters an inclusive environment where language skills are not just developed but celebrated. Read more about “Harnessing CS and Technology Skills for Culturally Responsive and Sustainable Solutions.” 

Digital Literacy

Computer science education equips ESL and ELL learners with essential digital literacy skills. In an era dominated by technology, proficiency in digital tools is invaluable. As learners engage with coding platforms, they simultaneously enhance their ability to navigate digital interfaces, expanding their linguistic and technological skill set.  

Furthermore, students need computer science and technology skills to be equipped for the jobs and careers of today and tomorrow. Throughout the country, states are progressively acknowledging the significance of providing students with digital literacy and coding skills, aiming to ready them for the evolving job market. This movement towards incorporating computer science into K-12 curricula not only reflects the shifting technological terrain but also acknowledges the numerous advantages associated with such integration. 

CoderZ Supports ELL & ESL Learners and Teachers 

CoderZ uses Blockly, Python and Java. Our courses offer a variety of languages, many of which include Spanish, Portuguese, French, and more. Not only does that include the platform itself, but the ancillary stories and guides that further support learning.  

Furthermore, CoderZ’s courses provide dual language instruction and ESL supports for students and teachers alike, including: 

• Vocabulary lists to ensure all students comprehend meaning and context 
• Problem statements which typically aren’t text-based (these problems are going to be the same in any language) 
• Graphic organizers in our student guides to better support comprehension regardless of language and reading skills. 

Bridging Language Differences: ELL & ESL Students Flourish 

Computer science serves as a transformative force for ESL and ELL learners, offering a pathway to language proficiency, critical thinking, and cultural inclusivity. By embracing the visual language of coding, solving real-world problems, and participating in collaborative learning environments, these learners not only navigate the digital landscape but also bridge the language gap, unlocking a world of opportunities and connections. As we champion computer science education, we pave the way for a future where language is not a barrier but a gateway to endless possibilities. 

CSEdWeek is December 4th-10th and we’ve gathered some tips and tricks to implement a successful Hour of Code.

Check out CoderZ’s Hour of Code Activity “Plant a Garden” which includes lesson plans, activities, and resources.

The post ESL & ELL: Key Components in the Algorithm of Inclusive Computer Science Education appeared first on CoderZ.

It’s no secret that computer science is just about everywhere. We’re using it to create art, push the boundaries of medical science, and even find ancient cities hidden in the jungle. As technology advances, educators are working hard to ensure that our kids can take full advantage of the opportunities coding can give them. But in a school day already crowded with traditional studies, it’s a big ask for teachers to find time for a subject they might not be familiar with themselves. To figure out how to get coding to fit, not just in the schedule, but in the curriculum itself, more schools are turning to integration. 

The specifics of integration can vary from classroom to classroom, but in a basic sense, it involves teaching computer science in a way that connects it with the content, skills, and practices of another discipline, such as math, science, social studies, or language arts. While integration gives educators more flexibility in how they allocate instructional time, the biggest advantages are to the quality of the teaching and learning. Authentic connections between disciplines promote student interest and help them apply new cognitive skills across domains. Putting new subjects in a familiar context can give new-to-coding teachers more confidence to leverage their existing expertise and teaching strategies. 

So where does coding fit in?

Given that it has natural connections to almost every discipline, it could go anywhere. In fact, the Hour of Code website boasts over 500 activities that are categorized as integrating math, science, language arts, social students, and the arts. Many computer science programs lean into their STEM connections, but as the impact of emerging technologies on today’s society becomes more prominent, some programs have started looking toward connections with the humanities, encouraging students to reflect on their relationship to the technologies that they use and create. 

Check out CoderZ’s Hour of Code Activity “Plant a Garden” which includes lesson plans, activities, and resources.

Interweaving CS and ELA: Uniting Disciplines for Learning

One of the most motivating connections between coding and language arts, for example, is the role of creativity and expression in each. Both involve creating and expressing ideas using language, whether it is natural or artificial, and both require imagination, originality, and innovation, as well as technical skills. For language arts educators participating in Hour of Code this year, here are a few easy ways to support language learning, using skills you already have! 

1. Highlight parallels in the coding and writing processes 

Just as brainstorming and planning are important parts of the writing process, they play a key role in coding. Many of the Hour of Code activities (which are all free!) encourage students to plan their code as part of the software development process. Some of them, such as the CoderZ Code Farm activity, even have videos dedicated to this topic. As students learn about these steps in software development, take a few minutes to make the connection between the planning they should do for writing. A teacher who can convince a student to outline before beginning to write is a teacher who can convince a student to plan before beginning to code. You might even be able to use the same graphic organizers!  

2. Use ‘debugging’ to help motivate editing 

One of the best things about teaching coding is that it’s not on the teacher to tell students that their code won’t work. The computer will do that for you, and there’s no way to convince it that it ‘should’ understand buggy code. Coders have to debug their code for the computer to execute it, leading students to attend to precision and take responsibility for clarity of communication. These lessons can be brought into the language arts classroom, where students should take on the task of ‘debugging’ (editing) their own writing, rather than risk miscommunication. Teachers can use coding to help set the expectation that it is the writer who should communicate with clarity and precision, rather than the reader who should puzzle it out. 

3. Incorporate authentic written tasks 

Like most professional jobs, software development itself involves quite a bit of writing, especially when it comes to usability. Students who are working on more extensive coding projects may be asked to consider who will use these projects and write user profiles or case studies to help them better understand and articulate how their program will be used. This can be as simple as writing a story of someone using the program, including information on who the person is, why they are using the program, and what context or environment they’re using it in. These activities support literacy goals around understanding character, motivation, and plot, as well as computing goals around user-centered design. As a reflection on their Hour of Code experience, students may be asked to imagine a program that they would like to create, and to write a narrative that describes someone using the program, and what the program would need to meet that person’s needs. 

4. Research and analysis 

Other extension activities ask students to reflect on the technology that they’re already familiar with, or to research new technologies that will impact society. Younger students may be asked to think about an app or website that they use in school and write about positive and negative aspects of it, or ways that they think it could be improved. Older students may research emerging technologies and consider their social impact on various communities, or they may compare and contrast different applications that have similar goals. Asking students to think critically and consider multiple points of view is a key goal of both computer and language arts. 

5. Presentations and reflections 

Students who have completed creative projects as part of their Hour of Code could be asked to do short presentations on their work.  Depending on the activity or the goals of the class, students may explain their design decisions, talk about challenges they faced and how they overcame them, or reflect on important things they learned in the process. Presenting work not only allows students to reflect on and celebrate what they have done, but it provides a way for teachers to assess student work and learning on coding activities. These presentations also mirror authentic presentations of products and their features, as well as the reflective work that professionals do on their processes in the workplace.  

These are just a few of the many ways that teachers are integrating coding into current curricula. As experts in teaching and learning, not to mention the current school system, educators are the best positioned people to find ways to make computing fit. Don’t be afraid to lean into what works for you, whether that’s language arts, social studies, STEM, or the arts. You’ve got this! 

CSEdWeek is December 4th-10th and we’ve gathered some tips and tricks to implement a successful Hour of Code.

Check out CoderZ’s Hour of Code Activity “Plant a Garden” which includes lesson plans, activities, and resources.

The post Coding: Where Does It Fit In? Integrating CS into ELA and Literacy appeared first on CoderZ.

Are you ready to join the tens of thousands of classrooms that participate in the Hour of Code during CSEdWeek every year? This global event is a great way to spark students’ interest in STEM, develop their computational thinking skills, and inspire them to create their own projects. With over a thousand available activities and teacher resources, there’s something for every classroom. 

Here are a few easy tips to make your classroom Hour of Code a success. 

1. Curate the activities for your classroom 

The number of choices for coding activities can be overwhelming for anyone, let alone students getting their first taste of computer science. Take some time to look through the various possibilities and choose one or more activities that best suit your classroom. The Hour of Code website allows you to search by grade level, coding ability, device type, and language.  Although many of these tutorials allow for students to work independently, most students will benefit from a teacher’s support, so look for tutorials that provide a clear role and support for the teacher. 

2. Check your devices and resources ahead of time 

Make sure you have enough working computers or tablets for your students to participate in the Hour of Code, and that none of the videos or other resources are blocked on student devices. Remember that different activities have different device requirements, so you’ll want to reference the activities you’ve chosen for your students. If the tutorial includes sound, headphones will be essential! Some tutorials, such as the CoderZ Code Farm activity, include materials that can be displayed during whole group activities, and you may want to download these onto your own computer. Most activities will include a customizable certificate that can be printed out and distributed to students, or even emailed to parents. If you want your students to have a physical copy, print them out ahead of time. 

3. Fit it to your classroom culture 

As teachers know, even the most successful special activities can cause challenges as they break the classroom routine. While many Hour of Code activities present as stand-alone, independent challenges, they can also be incorporated into current topics and classroom routines. Spend some time as a whole group setting the stage for the activity as you would for any lesson. This could include journal prompts, videos, or class discussions, depending on what best fit your student needs. Many lesson plans may already include discussion questions, learning objectives, or helpful videos. Check out our Hour of Code lesson plan to see what type of resources may be available to you. 

4. Take a step back 

One of the benefits of computing education is that it supports students in building crucial 21st century skills, such as collaboration, persistence, and problem solving. Hour of Code is a great opportunity to support students in developing these skills, and in building their own self-efficacy, by allowing them to explore and experiment within the activities. Some of the most exciting moments for students may be when they go beyond the prescribed activities and create something that is completely their own. Support these creative endeavors and encourage students to learn from each other and forge their own paths rather than follow step by step instructions to the letter. Students who are truly stuck may need some support and encouragement, but even asking them to explain their problem in detail may be enough to get started again. And above all, remind them that getting things wrong before you get them right is a natural part of the programming process. Read more about Coding a Growth Mindset here. 

5. Celebrate and showcase student work 

The Hour of Code is not only a learning opportunity, but also a celebration of what your students can do with their coding skills. Celebrate students’ creativity and achievement by showcasing their work, either internally through a gallery walk or presentations, or by sharing with other teachers, administrators, and parents. While some tutorials may not allow students to directly share their code due to privacy concerns, all students should be able to screenshot or take pictures of their programs in action. Allow students to share what they are most proud of and celebrate their ability to persist through challenges and find a new outlet for their creativity. 

6. Don’t stop now! 

The Hour of Code can give students a small taste of the fun and the power of coding, but it’s just the beginning. From coding clubs to robot competitions to full curricula, there are tons of ways that teachers and students can dive deeper into this subject. Stay tuned for more. 

The post Bring Code to Your Classroom: A Guide for Teachers to Implement a Successful Hour of Code for CSEdWeek   appeared first on CoderZ.

In recent years, the landscape of education in the United States has been undergoing a profound transformation, particularly when it comes to Computer Science (CS) education in K-12 schools. Across the nation, states are increasingly recognizing the importance of equipping students with digital literacy and coding skills to prepare them for the future job market. This shift towards integrating CS into K-12 curricula is not only a response to the changing technological landscape but also a recognition of the many benefits that come with it.  

Here we’ll explore how legislation for computer science in K-12 education is evolving in many states, why staying ahead of the curve in CS curriculum is essential, and how professional development (PD) plays a critical role in ensuring the success of this transition. 

The Changing Landscape of CS Education Legislation 

We’re all witnessing the world change rapidly, especially with advancements as it comes to AI. As technology continues to accelerate at an unprecedented pace, there is a growing demand for a workforce with strong computer science skills. Recognizing this need, many states have taken significant steps to introduce and support CS education in their K-12 schools. Legislation in various forms, including bills, mandates, and guidelines, has been introduced to promote the integration of CS into existing curricula. 

One of the key documents shaping this change is the 2023 “Designing for CS Integration into Existing K-5 Subjects in the US” report by the Computer Science Education Research (CSED) organization. This report highlights the importance of incorporating CS into subjects across the K-5 spectrum, emphasizing the integration of computational thinking and problem-solving skills into everyday learning. Such initiatives reflect a broader shift in educational policy towards recognizing CS as a fundamental skillset, alongside reading, writing, and mathematics. 

The Importance of Staying Ahead in CS Curriculum 

As the push for CS education gains momentum, schools and districts must acknowledge the urgency of adapting their curricula to accommodate this change. There are several compelling reasons why getting ahead in CS education is a valuable move: 

• Future-Proofing: The job market of the future will demand computer science skills, regardless of the career path students choose. Nearly every industry today, from manufacturing to agriculture,  has elements of CS that are required by the job. By introducing CS early, schools ensure that their graduates are well-prepared for a rapidly changing world. 
• Equity and Access: Early exposure to CS reduces disparities in access to technology and opportunities. It ensures that all students, regardless of their backgrounds, have a chance to develop essential digital literacy skills. 
• Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: CS education fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. These skills are not only valuable in the field of technology but also in everyday life. Many state and national standards are now requiring these skills. 
• Economic Benefits: States that invest in CS education are likely to see economic benefits in the form of a skilled workforce and increased innovation. 

Professional Development: A Critical Component 

While the legislative changes and curriculum updates are essential, the success of these initiatives depends heavily on the preparedness of educators. Many teachers may not have had formal CS training, which makes professional development beneficial for long-term health and growth of CS programs.  

Here’s why PD is critical: 

• Building Community and Capacity: Do you want to build a sustainable way to teach CS for not only this year but the next few years? PD programs empower educators with the knowledge and skills needed to teach CS effectively, which benefits EVERYONE. Teachers are more likely to feel they are equipped to perform the job required of them, and this improves teacher turnover and staff shortages.   
• Pedagogical Techniques: Teaching CS requires specialized pedagogical techniques. PD helps teachers develop strategies for engaging students and making CS concepts accessible. Having a platform and curriculum crafted from former educators and experts in CS that eat, sleep and breathe PD is critical. Enter CoderZ Pedagogy Team. 
• Interdisciplinary Integration: PD can assist educators in seamlessly integrating CS into existing subjects, as suggested in the CSED report. This interdisciplinary approach enhances the learning experience. 
• Staying Current: Technology evolves rapidly. PD ensures that educators stay up-to-date with the latest tools, languages, and methodologies in the CS field. 

While we believe strongly in the value of PD, we also know that sometimes Administrators have limited options and resources, and yet are still faced with requirements to make Computer Science a reality in their schools.  

CoderZ’s extensive teacher resources allow new-to-CS teachers and even seasoned CS teachers to ramp up on course content and pedagogical knowledge, so they know how to best teach computer science in the classroom. Our mission is to set up teachers for success, even if they are going into teaching CoderZ without much background in coding or computer science.  

This is especially important for districts struggling with teacher shortages or turnover because students can benefit from computer science education without administrators needing to immediately assign a dedicated resource to computer science. Teachers can get started now, just with the teacher resources available in the platform, and later can fully develop their CS community and teaching identity with expert professional development opportunities. Teacher resources include mission breakdowns, speaker notes, and how to structure the class to support learning. 

Kindergarten to Career 

CoderZ is the only company of its kind that offers a learning pathway from Kindergarten to Career. We are designed for grades 3-12 and ensure students are equipped for success in the jobs of tomorrow. We spark a love for STEM and robotics for those who may not see themselves represented in STEM fields. We build confidence, resilience, and 21st Century Skills in students across the world. 

By staying ahead in CS curriculum development and providing educators with the necessary training, we can ensure that the next generation is well prepared to face the challenges and opportunities of the digital age. The future is digital, and our education system must reflect that reality to provide students with the best possible foundation for success. 

Helping Students Thrive in a Technology Driven World 

The integration of CS into K-12 education holds immense potential for students, as it equips them with the skills needed to thrive in a technology-driven world. We are seeing more and more data driven stories as well as anecdotal stories about the benefits of integrating tech at even earlier ages.  

The post The Increasing Demand for Computer Science Education in K-12: What it Means for Educators, Teachers, and Students appeared first on CoderZ.

In today’s rapidly evolving world, computer science (CS) and technology skills have become indispensable tools for addressing a wide range of societal challenges. Technology and computing are in all industries including farming and agriculture, manufacturing, construction, and retail. And yet, the importance of maximizing our CS innovative progress in ways that are sustainably and culturally beneficial is often overlooked.  

Participation of traditionally underrepresented and underserved students has continued to remain low in computer science subjects and career paths, especially for girls and Black and Brown students. But technology is an important aspect of education for students to be prepared for the future and set up for success in almost every career of tomorrow. 

What Can Culturally Responsive Technology Education Look Like? 

One of the fundamental aspects of utilizing CS and technology skills in a culturally responsive way is ensuring that educational programs are inclusive and accessible to a diverse range of students. There is a pressing need to diversify the tech industry, and this begins with fostering inclusive learning environments that encompass computer science into various subjects, and provide CS options for all students.   

There is a big push to include CS in all high schools, as there should be. But while there is value in offering or implementing CS in all grades, the sooner young learners are introduced to the world of computer science, the greater the chance their curiosity will be piqued, which can ultimately lead to a deeper understanding and increased likelihood of success in school, in CS, and in a career/job. 

Key takeaway: It’s never too late to bring CS opportunities to students, but the sooner the better. 

Broadening Participation 

Curriculum brought to the classroom plays a pivotal role in introducing students to CS and technology. To make CS culturally responsive, schools must actively encourage underrepresented students, including women and people of color, to engage with these fields by providing opportunities, scholarships, and mentorship programs. Access to a CS class or curriculum does not always mean success. Students need support and this can also look like teachers also need support.  

Additionally, representation matters and can be the key to inspiring students to believe in themselves. When students see and interact with someone that looks like them succeed in a STEM field, it can be an imperative nudge for their own mindset about their own capabilities. This can bridge the gap and cultivate a more diverse tech workforce. 

Key takeaway: Providing opportunities is a crucial first step, but access to CS does not always mean success. Support for students and teachers is needed.  

Cultivating Inclusivity 

Curriculum development is a vital aspect of creating culturally responsive CS education. As many states mandate CS in the classroom, schools should offer courses that not only include CS and teach coding, but also emphasize the importance of ethics, social responsibility, and the cultural context in which technology operates. This approach helps students understand how CS can be a force for positive change in society. 

Sustainable Technology Solutions: Environmental Awareness 

K12 computer science classes can integrate sustainability by teaching students about the environmental impacts of technology. Research by the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) highlights that integrating sustainability into computer science education fosters a deeper understanding of the ecological consequences of technological choices. This includes exploring topics such as energy-efficient coding, reducing electronic waste, and developing algorithms for sustainable resource management.  This empowers students to not only develop essential technical skills but also become conscientious digital citizens capable of making eco-conscious decisions in an increasingly technology-driven world. This approach aligns with the broader goals of preparing the next generation to address pressing environmental challenges. 

Problem-Solving for Sustainability 

CS and technology skills are invaluable for designing sustainable solutions. K12 education and curriculum designed with sustainability in mind can encourage students to tackle real-world sustainability challenges, such as creating apps to track and reduce carbon footprints or developing smart devices for efficient energy consumption. 

Collaborative and Multidisciplinary Approaches 

To achieve culturally responsive and sustainable outcomes, encouraging collaborative and multidisciplinary projects that blend CS and technology with other subjects like social sciences, arts, and humanities is important. These projects can help students gain a deeper understanding of how technology impacts various aspects of society. CoderZ designs their curriculum to be multidisciplinary, inclusive and applicable for use in science, math and even ELA classes. 

Incorporating CS and technology skills into culturally responsive and sustainable education is not just a trend; it’s a necessity. Those of us in education have a unique opportunity to empower the next generation of tech innovators to think critically about cultural inclusivity and environmental sustainability. By broadening participation, fostering inclusivity, and addressing sustainability concerns, we can ensure that CS and technology skills are used to build a more equitable and sustainable future for all. 

All Hands-on-Deck 

It’s time for an all hands-on-deck effort. It’s time to rethink how we teach CS and technology and emphasize the importance of supporting teachers as they embark on this challenge. By embracing these changes, we can harness the power of technology to address cultural and environmental challenges while nurturing a diverse and socially conscious generation of tech leaders. 

The post Harnessing CS and Technology Skills for Culturally Responsive and Sustainable Solutions appeared first on CoderZ.