What is Computer Science Education Week?
Computer Science Education Week (CSEW) is an annual event used to inspire K-12 students to discover computer science. Computer science is the study of computers and their applications, as well as the mathematical structures that relate to computers and computation. Every student should have the opportunity to learn about computer science because it helps nurture problem solving skills, logic, and creativity. Students will have a foundation for success in any 21st-century career path when they start learning these skills early.
Why is CSEW important?
Technology is transforming every industry on the planet. In 2015, 7 million openings in the U.S. were in occupations that value coding skills—including art and design—but 53 percent of schools in the U.S. don’t teach computer science. No matter what students decide to do when they grow up, knowing how to use technology will give them confidence and a competitive edge in the workplace.
Research shows that kids can pick up programming concepts before they know how to read and write. Just like foreign languages, their brains are more receptive to computer languages at a young age.
Facts about Computer Science
You can even help your kids from home!
If you heard about the Hour of Code last year, you might know it made history—100 million students have now discovered how accessible and fun computer science can be by doing just one 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. Learn more at http://HourOfCode.com and try an hour yourself.
Many teachers and parents aren’t experienced in computer science and don’t know where to start. The Hour of Code is a chance for everyone to learn and see what computer science is about. Learn how to do an Hour of Code with your child at the following link: https://hourofcode.com/us/how-to/parents
Join the library online for Computer Science Education Week classes!
The library is offering three different online classes during Computer Science Education Week.
- 12/7 Cubelets from 6:00pm-7:00pm Learn how to make your own robot using magnetic cubes that move, light up, and rotate. Click here to register.
- 12/9 Bitsbox from 6:00pm-7:00pm With a keyboard and Internet access we’ll show you how to build apps using modified JavaScript. Click here to register.
- 12/10 Micro:Bit from 6:00pm-7:00pm Learn how you can easily get started with hacking with block coding. Click here to register.
Can’t join any of our online library events, try one of the Hour of Code Activities at: https://hourofcode.com/us/learn.
*Photographs and information from https://hourofcode.com/
