posted Nov 16, 2014, 10:14 PM by barryjohnson@isriau.org
What is the Hour of Code?
A one-hour activity. Students of all ages can choose from a variety of self-guided tutorials, from kindergarten up. Tutorials work on any modern browser, tablet, smartphone, or even with no computer at all.
No experience needed. Teachers or students.
A spark to keep learning computer science. Once students see what they create right before their eyes, they’re empowered to keep learning.
Why Computer Science?
Every 21st-century student should have the opportunity to learn computer science. The basics help nurture creativity and problem-solving skills, and prepare students for any future career. Software and computers are everywhere, but fewer schools teach computer science than 10 years ago.
Do I need computers for every participant?No. We have Hour of Code tutorials that work on PCs, smartphones, tablets, and some that require no computer at all! You can join wherever you are, with whatever you have.Here are a few options:
- Work in pairs. Research shows students learn best with pair programming, sharing a computer and working together. Encourage your students to double up.
- Use a projected screen. If you have a projector and screen for a Web-connected computer, your entire group can do an Hour of Code together. Watch video portions together and take turns solving puzzles or answering questions.
- Go unplugged. We offer tutorials that require no computer at all.
How to teach one Hour of Code
1) Watch this how-to video
2) Try the tutorials:
We’ll host a variety of fun, hour-long tutorials for students of all ages, created by a variety of partners. New tutorials are coming to kick off the Hour of Code before December 8-14.
All Hour of Code tutorials:
- Require minimal prep-time for teachers
- Are self-guided - allowing students to work at their own pace and skill-level
3) Plan your hardware needs - computers are optional
The best Hour of Code experience will be with Internet-connected computers. But you don’t need a computer for every child, and can even do the Hour of Code without a computer at all.
- Test tutorials on student computers or devices. Make sure they work properly (with sound and video).
- Preview the congrats page to see what students will see when they finish.
- Provide headphones for your class, or ask students to bring their own, if the tutorial you choose works best with sound.
4) Plan ahead based on your technology available
- Don't have enough devices? Use pair programming. When students partner up, they help each other and rely less on the teacher. They’ll also see that computer science is social and collaborative.
- Have low bandwidth? Plan to show videos at the front of the class, so each student isn't downloading their own videos. Or try the unplugged / offline tutorials.
5) Inspire students - show them a video
Show students an inspirational video to kick off the Hour of Code. Examples:
Get your students excited - give them a short intro
Most kids don’t know what computer science is. Here are some ideas:
- Explain it in a simple way that includes examples of applications that both boys and girls will care about (saving lives, helping people, connecting people, etc.).
- Try: "Think about things in your everyday life that use computer science: a cell phone, a microwave, a computer, a traffic light… all of these things needed a computer scientist to help build them.”
- Or: “Computer science is the art of blending human ideas and digital tools to increase our power. Computer scientists work in so many different areas: writing apps for phones, curing diseases, creating animated movies, working on social media, building robots that explore other planets and so much more."
- See tips for getting girls interested in computer science here.
6) Start your Hour of Code
Direct students to the activity
When your students come across difficulties
- Tell students, “Ask 3 then me.” Ask 3 classmates, and if they don’t have the answer, then ask the teacher.
- Encourage students and offer positive reinforcement: “You’re doing great, so keep trying.”
- It’s okay to respond: “I don’t know. Let’s figure this out together.” If you can’t figure out a problem, use it as a good learning lesson for the class: “Technology doesn’t always work out the way we want. Together, we’re a community of learners.” And: “Learning to program is like learning a new language; you won’t be fluent right away.“
What to do if a student finishes early?
- Students can see all tutorials and try another Hour of Code activity at code.org/learn
- Or, ask students who finish early to help classmates who are having trouble with the activity.
How do I print certificates for my students?
Each student gets a chance to get a certificate via email when they finish the Code.org tutorials. You can click on the certificate to print it. However, if you want to make new certificates for your students, visit our Certificates page to print as many certificates as you like, in one fell swoop!
What comes after the Hour of Code?
The Hour of Code is just the first step on a journey to learn more about how technology works and how to create software applications. To continue this journey, find additional resources for educators here. Or encourage your children to learn online.
Sign up your event
|
|
