Computer Science Education Week - December 9-15, 2024
It's that time again to celebrate Computer Science Education. As usual, I like to share some historical information on why we are here today. Computer Science Education week was first launched in 2009 as a joint effort by numerous companies and organizations. We celebrate Computer Science Education week (CS Ed Week) each year during the week of Grace Hopper’s birthday (December 9, 1906), who invented the first compiler and coined the term “bug” (an error in a program) after removing an actual moth from a computer in 1947. The first Hour of Code challenge was held during CS Ed Week in 2013 with a focus on engaging students to complete short programming tutorials.
The future of technology is here, and it continues to get more exciting each year. This year, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Computer Science (CS) are at the forefront of innovation. From personalized learning experiences to groundbreaking discoveries, AI and CS are transforming the way we live and work.
I encourage you to join the movement and make a difference.
"How?"
- Participate in a Hour of Code: This is the flagship event of CS Education Week. There are thousands of free, one-hour coding activities for all ages and skill levels. Visit code.org to find tutorials and resources.
- Volunteer as a CS Advocate: Help spread the word about CS Education by volunteering to host an event in your community, such as a school or library. No time to host your own event, check your local community for events or visit a classroom or student organization to share your CS experiences.
- Learn to Code Yourself: Whether you are a beginner or experienced programmer, there are countless online resources to learn CS skills.
- Share Your Passion on Social Media: Use social media platforms to share your experiences with computer science, post about CS Ed Week events, and encourage others to get involved. Use the hashtag #CSEdWeek to connect with the broader community.
Wisconsin continues to build and grow equitable and accessible opportunities to Computer Science. Let's continue to build on the momentum to create opportunities to learn, inspire, and celebrate computer science. Get involved in a way that excites you!
Computer Science Education Week Proclamation
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Careers
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All online information, from personal accounts to national security, needs protection. That is where cybersecurity professionals come in! There are not enough though and Cyber.org not only helps students learn the basics of cybersecurity, but also provides resources on the different types of cybersecurity jobs are available. Check out these resources, available in Spanish, to help students explore careers of the future. | Cyber.org |
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Young Learners: PBS Learning
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"Work It Out Wombats" is a new animated series for children ages 3 to 6. The series stars Malik, Zadie, and Zeke - three energetic and creative marsupial siblings who line in a treehouse apartment complex. The playful trio demonstrates computational thinking for preschoolers, a way of thinking that enables them to solve problems, express themselves, and accomplish tasks using the practices, processes and ideas at the core of computer science. In each story, the Wombats demonstrate computational thinking for preschoolers, learning as they go. Their aspirations sometimes exceed their proficiency. But, eventually they’ll stop, take a breath, put their heads together and figure out a fix—using the design process, sequencing, debugging, and other key elements of computational thinking. |
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Artificial Intelligence: AI4K12
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The Artificial Intelligence (AI) for K-12 initiative (AI4K12) is jointly sponsored by AAAI and CSTA. The initiative is developing (1) national guidelines for AI education for K-12, (2) an online, curated resource Directory to facilitate AI instruction, and (3) a community of practitioners, researchers, resource and tool developers focused on the AI for K-12 audience. |
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Hour of Code: Code.org
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One Hour: IGNITE. INSPIRE. CODE The Hour of Code is a worldwide movement that aims to introduce millions of students to computer science through one-hour coding activities. Through Hour of Code, we aim to demystify coding and show that anyone can learn the basics, inspiring future interest in computer science. |
Code.org |
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MakeCode: micro:bits
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Take your students creativity to the next level with the Microsoft Makecode micro:bit coding platform. With or without the physical LED circuit board, students can explore multiple ways to express their individual creativity. Visit the tutorials and see which one might be a good fit for your classroom. The Rock Paper Scissors is my personal favorite as it takes computation thinking to the next level with understanding "if" statements. |
Flashing Heart Name Tag Smiley Buttons Dice & more |
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Scratch
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Encourage your learners to imagine a world where anything is possible, then bring it to life with Scratch! This is a great introductory coding activity. The accompanying Educator Guide is full of tips for facilitating a workshop or class around this tutorial. The Imagine a World Coding Cards have extra tips to support learners as they explore and create. |
**The DPI will not endorse the use of any specific instruction platform, tool, or product. Wisconsin DPI facilitates discussions between school districts on successes and challenges in providing instruction to help each district identify and utilize tools that fit the district's specific needs. Each district should work with its own legal counsel to ensure the use of a particular product complies with state and federal law, including student privacy requirements, as well as local school board policies.