Hour of Code

The hour of code is coming up in the month of December. I like to think of hour of code as a stress free intro into the world of coding. This is a chance for schools nationwide to come together to introduce students AND teachers to the world of coding. It is important for students to be exposed to coding (actually computer science in general) in order to get them excited and peek an interest in this field. Coding is a growing assets that is valuable at ALL levels. Basic coding skills are becoming important for entry level jobs. Because we are training our students for jobs that do not exist yet, this is an experience to open their eyes in a way that promotes life long learning. Statistics show that over 50% of coding jobs will go unfilled due to a lack of trained candidates! If we can peek an interest now - these students will be able to change the world through technology!

Don't let excuses get in the way of preparing your students! When you want to do something - you will always find a way to make it happen. Coding can be completed in stations, in computer labs, on iPads, or on paper with no technology at all! All you need is a device (or paper), a plan, and an urgency to ensure that your students are prepared for the "real world" - the rest is magic! Just JUMP IN! It's a learning process that is not suppose to be perfect the first time. Build on your experience and have fun with your students! 

Coding sounds daunting, but being open to adventure helps to overcome this "unknown."  The first step is for you, the teacher, to try it. Go to code.org and code the angry bird session. You will see just how easy and fun coding is!


My Angry Bird - Santa edition. The key to my game is that you get a point every time you pass through the objects AND every time you hit the ground. You are suppose to try to hit the ground in between objects for more points. 


Your students will grow in: directions, problem solving, computer science, writing, logic, the list goes on....



                   FAQ's (from code.org)
What is the Hour of Code?
The Hour of Code is a one-hour introduction to computer science, designed to demystify code and show that anybody can learn the basics. Check out the tutorials, and look out for new ones coming for the Hour of Code 2014.

When is the Hour of Code?
December 8-14, 2014, in celebration of Computer Science Education Week. 

Is it one specific hour? 
No. You can do the Hour of Code anytime during this week. (And if you can't do it during that week, do it the week before or after).

Why computer science?
Every student should have the opportunity to learn computer science. It helps nurture problem-solving skills, logic and creativity. By starting early, students will have a foundation for success in any 21st-century career path. 
See more stats on Code.org.

How do I participate in the Hour of Code?
Sign up to host an Hour of Code event here and start planning. You can organize an Hour of Code event at your school or in your community — like in an extracurricular club, non-profit or at work. Or, just try it yourself when Dec. 8 arrives.

Who is behind the Hour of Code?
The Hour of Code is organized by Code.org, a public 501c3 non-profit dedicated to expanding participation in computer science by making it available in more schools, and increasing participation by women and underrepresented students of color. An unprecedented coalition of partners have come together to support the Hour of Code, too — including Microsoft, Apple, Amazon, Boys and Girls Clubs of America and the College Board.

I don't know anything about coding. Can I still host an event?
Of course. Hour of Code activities are self-guided. All you have to do is try our current tutorials, pick the tutorial you want, and pick an hour — we take care of the rest. We also have options for every age and experience-level, from kindergarten and up. Start planning your event by reading our how to guide.

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.

Resources:
code.org
hourofcode.com/us
#SCED on Twitter
csedweek.com
http://www.cs-first.com