Description
Advanced Computer Proficiency required. Read more »
Advanced computer proficiency courses are designed for individuals who have a solid foundation in computer skills. Participants will further enhance their knowledge and abilities by exploring advanced concepts and tools, such as programming languages or 3d printing.
Educators today are asked to integrate coding and computational thinking into their curriculums to prepare students for the technology-driven future.
This course aims to address this challenge by familiarizing educators with effective tools and platforms for teaching these essential skills.
By focusing on Arduino, Raspberry Pi, Micro:bit, and CyberPi, the course provides a comparative analysis to guide educators in selecting the best resources to meet their educational goals and student needs.
Throughout the course, participants will explore these programs’ functionalities, educational applications, and limitations.
The objective is to empower educators with the knowledge to choose appropriate tools for enhancing coding and computational thinking lessons, ensuring students engage in meaningful, hands-on learning experiences.
The main course activities include an introduction to each platform, providing participants with an overview of their origins, capabilities, and educational philosophies.
Through hands-on workshops, educators will compare the usability, accessibility, and suitability of each platform for different age groups and learning environments.
Participants will also develop lesson plans that incorporate these platforms, focusing on fostering engagement, creativity, and problem-solving skills among students.
Additionally, educators will engage in practical implementation by designing and executing mini projects in group activities, experiencing firsthand the learning opportunities each platform offers.
By the conclusion of the course, educators will possess the skills to navigate the options available for coding education.
They will be able to craft enriched learning environments that introduce students to coding and computational thinking while inspiring innovation and a deep understanding of technology’s role in solving real-world problems.
Furthermore, participants will leave with a network of peers and resources to support the continuous evolution of their coding curriculum.
What is included
Learning outcomes
The course will help participants to:
- Understand the Core Principles of Coding and Computational Thinking: Gain a foundational understanding of coding concepts and computational thinking, and why they are crucial for students in today’s technology-driven world.
- Differentiate Between Arduino, Raspberry Pi, Micro:bit, and CyberPi: Learn the unique features, strengths, and limitations of each platform to make informed decisions on their applicability in educational settings.
- Assess Educational Applications: Evaluate the suitability of each platform for teaching coding and computational thinking across different age groups and learning objectives.
- Develop Engaging Lesson Plans: Acquire the skills to design and implement effective lesson plans that utilize Arduino, Raspberry Pi, Micro:bit, and CyberPi to foster student engagement and learning.
- Implement Hands-On Learning Activities: Experience and understand how to facilitate hands-on projects that encourage students to explore, create, and solve problems using coding concepts.
- Navigate Challenges in Teaching Coding: Identify common challenges in teaching coding and computational thinking and learn strategies to overcome them, ensuring a productive learning environment.
- Promote Collaborative Learning: Discover ways to encourage collaboration among students during coding projects, enhancing their communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
- Foster a Community of Practice: Build a network with fellow educators to share resources, ideas, and experiences for ongoing professional development and support in teaching coding and computational thinking.
Tentative schedule
Day 1 – Course introduction and setting goals
- Course introduction: Introduction to the course, facilitators, and participants;
- Icebreaker activities to build a sense of community among participants;
- Overview of the importance of coding and computational thinking in modern education;
- Initial exploration of Arduino, Raspberry Pi, Micro:bit, and CyberPi.
Day 2 – In-depth look at Arduino and Raspberry Pi
- Detailed exploration of Arduino: features, classroom applications, and project ideas;
- Comprehensive review of Raspberry Pi: capabilities, educational resources, and limitations.
Day 3 – Exploring Micro:bit and CyberPi
- Examination of Micro:bit: usability, programming environment, and educational value;
- Analysis of CyberPi: features, classroom integration, and comparison to other platforms.
Day 4 – Curriculum integration and lesson planning
- Strategies for integrating coding tools into the curriculum;
- Workshop on creating lesson plans utilizing Arduino, Raspberry Pi, Micro:bit, and CyberPi.
Day 5 – Hands-on projects and classroom implementation
- Group projects to apply what has been learned in a classroom-like setting;
- Discussion on overcoming challenges in teaching coding and computational thinking;
- Reflection on the key insights gained and strategies for applying them in educational settings.
Day 6 – Course closure and cultural activities
- Course evaluation: round-up of acquired competencies, feedback, and discussion;
- Awarding of the course Certificate of Attendance;
- Excursion and other external cultural activities.
