#csk8 Archive

This chat includes a discussion of topics of interest to K-8 teachers who teach and/or integrate computer science.The Computer Science Teachers Association is a membership organization that supports and promotes the teaching of computer science and other computing disciplines. CSTA provides opportunities for K–12 teachers and students to better understand the computing disciplines and to more successfully prepare themselves to teach and learn.

Wednesday May 16, 2018
8:00 PM EDT

  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:00 PM EDT
    Welcome to tonight’s What’s Happening in #CSEd #csk8 chat with questions inspired by tweets & blog posts from the #CSEd community. Your moderator tonight is me, @visionsbyvicky
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:00 PM EDT
    Please join us right now on Twitter OR try https://t.co/QQKbV3pwo2 where the hashtag is automatically added & the refresh rate is faster. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:00 PM EDT
    Don’t forget to include the hashtag #csk8 on all tweets during the chat so that everyone participating in the chat sees your posts.
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:01 PM EDT
    #csk8 is a structured chat so questions are numbered Q1 for Question 1, Q2 for Question 2 and answers should start with A1 for the answer to Q1, A2 to answer Q2, etc.
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:01 PM EDT
    Before we get started with questions, please introduce yourself: Name, Location, Connection to K-8 CS education, and When’s your last day of this school year. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:03 PM EDT
    Good evening #csk8 chatters. I'm Vicky, a K-8 technology teacher in the Los Angeles area & on the CSTA Board of Directors as a K-8 rep and your moderator tonight.
  • mlmiller May 16 @ 8:04 PM EDT
    #csk8 Hi, Mark Miller here. I run https://t.co/LP2bL8AMzE, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to helping people use tech for learning. High emphasis on coding, making, and robotics, esp. grades 3-8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:05 PM EDT
    Hope you can join us tonight @ed_saber @HalSpeed @alfredtwo @KIKIvsIT #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:05 PM EDT
    How are you Mark. Haven't seen you in a few chats. Are you gearing up for the summer? #csk8
    In reply to @mlmiller
  • ed_saber May 16 @ 8:06 PM EDT
    Hey #csk8, Saber here. MS and Hs CS teacher, moderator of #ethicalCS chat, also @ProcessingOrg fellow for k12 CS outreach. I go on paternity leave on May 31 and that’s the end of the school year for me.
    • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:01 PM EDT
      Before we get started with questions, please introduce yourself: Name, Location, Connection to K-8 CS education, and When’s your last day of this school year. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:07 PM EDT
    Our first question inspired by blog posts & tweets from the #CSEd community - https://t.co/C6XKStz2ee - is coming up in one minute. Be watching for it! #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:07 PM EDT
    Paternity leave? How exciting! Welcome to #csk8 tonight.
    In reply to @ed_saber, @ProcessingOrg
  • stevenpfloyd May 16 @ 8:07 PM EDT
    Steve here. Ontario, Canada. High School CS teacher. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:08 PM EDT
    Q1: Inspired by a blog post by @alfredtwo, what programming languages do you teach, what grade levels do you teach them at, and why? #csk8 Original post: https://t.co/38v6YuCCuk
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:08 PM EDT
    Welcome, Steve. Glad you could join us tonight. It's pretty quiet, so far. #csk8
    In reply to @stevenpfloyd
  • alfredtwo May 16 @ 8:08 PM EDT
    Alfred here. HS CS teacher interested in #CSforAll #csk8
  • BTwarek May 16 @ 8:08 PM EDT
    Excited to learn from our incredible #CSinSF elementary teachers at our unconference PLC today! Thanks to @GoogleForEdu for hosting us! And thanks to @ScratchEdTeam for the meetup inspiration! Great facilitation @billmarsland! #SFUnified #CSforAll @GoogleSFO #CSforAll #csk8
  • stevenpfloyd May 16 @ 8:08 PM EDT
    Hi again Vicky! :) #csk8
    In reply to @VisionsByVicky
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:09 PM EDT
    Welcome, Alfred. Our first question was inspired by your blog post. What programming languages do you teach, what grade levels do you teach them at, and why? #csk8
    In reply to @alfredtwo
  • kjean26 May 16 @ 8:09 PM EDT
    Hi, I am the Director of @MattapanTech1 in Boston and I also teaching coding during the school year & summer for grades 2-5 #csk8
  • alfredtwo May 16 @ 8:09 PM EDT
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:10 PM EDT
    Welcome Karrie. We're on Q1: What programming languages do you teach, what grade levels do you teach them at, and why? #csk8
    In reply to @kjean26, @MattapanTech1
  • alfredtwo May 16 @ 8:11 PM EDT
    A1: I use a bunch of languages. AppInventor, Visual Basic, C# and @MSMakeCode My school also teaches Java #csk8 That's all high school though.
  • bquentin3 May 16 @ 8:11 PM EDT
    A1 I do Scratch Jr. with K and 1st. 2nd gets Jr to start the year and transitions to Scratch at the end of the year. 3rd-5th do Scratch mostly, but I do some Python w/ 5th and with my after school club. #csk8
  • stevenpfloyd May 16 @ 8:11 PM EDT
    A1: big question here :) always a big one for debate... I flip back and forth, but currently Visual Basic grade ten, Java for grade 11 and 12. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:12 PM EDT
    A1: My students do a lot of block-based languages starting with @codeorg & @scratchjr in Kindergarten. By 2nd grade, they're using @scratch and then @msmakecode and using both blocks & JavaScript in there. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:12 PM EDT
    As a high school teacher, what languages would you like students coming into high school to be familiar with. Question for you, too, @alfredtwo #csk8
    In reply to @stevenpfloyd, @alfredtwo
  • alfredtwo May 16 @ 8:13 PM EDT
    A1: drag and drop blocks seem to work well with younger students. I'm liking the https://t.co/0LuGXKRwQM possibilities with all sort of little devices that seem like they would make great maker projects #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:13 PM EDT
    Why Python? Do you think getting into a text based language is always a good thing in upper elementary? #csk8
    In reply to @bquentin3
  • stevenpfloyd May 16 @ 8:14 PM EDT
    I would say none in particular. Coding experience would be great, knowledge of concepts, ideas of iterating and debugging, project design, but no language in particular. #csk8
    In reply to @VisionsByVicky, @alfredtwo
  • mlmiller May 16 @ 8:14 PM EDT
    #csk8 A1 Scratch, SNAP!, Python, Javascript. I believe that the language DOES matter a great deal. Haven't read the articles yet to see if we agree.
  • alfredtwo May 16 @ 8:15 PM EDT
    Concepts are more important than languages. Loops, variables, decisions are all teachable with block languages. If they know any text based language that is a plus though. #csk8
    In reply to @VisionsByVicky, @stevenpfloyd
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:15 PM EDT
    A1: I try to transition my middle school into more text based languages but sometimes I find it's better to stay with Scratch though should move them to at least Snap. My goal is Python in Middle School & Arduino C when doing Arduino in 8th grade. #csk8
  • ed_saber May 16 @ 8:16 PM EDT
    A1: In MS I start with Python via @icodeinschool which helps switch from blocks to text in 5th/6th. HTML/CSS w/ @CodeHS in 7th to focus on syntax, files, documentation. 8th grade is into to CS with JavaScript on @CodeHS. Wrote it our here #csk8 https://t.co/zDIr5bGwO4
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:16 PM EDT
    Why does it matter and when do you transition from blocks to a text based language? #csk8
    In reply to @mlmiller
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:17 PM EDT
    Q2: Ever had hardware, Internet, lessons, or something else fail in your classes? How have you been resourceful in solving these problems? #csk8 Inspired by post from @KIKIvsIT https://t.co/VCtHRQKaXw
  • bquentin3 May 16 @ 8:17 PM EDT
    Depends on the Ss, Some are really excited by the challenge, so I let them run with it. #csk8
    In reply to @VisionsByVicky
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:17 PM EDT
    Do you prepare lessons for those students or is it up to them to acquire the knowledge they need themselves? #csk8
    In reply to @bquentin3
  • ed_saber May 16 @ 8:18 PM EDT
    A2: Oh gosh. I hate hardware. Almost always fails. The first-gen Raspberry Pi for setting up servers was a 6 month nightmare. Code in the editor and browser is so much more forgiving. With coding the @thecodingtrain from @shiffman has been super helpful. #csk8
  • alfredtwo May 16 @ 8:19 PM EDT
    Decisions about when to transition to text based is often dependent on the students and their readiness. Textbased languages do tend to offer more power though at a cost in cognitive load. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:19 PM EDT
    Can be more forgiving but we have really old 32-bit machines and browsers won't update & they won't be able to run Scratch 3.0 when it comes out. :( #csk8
    In reply to @ed_saber, @thecodingtrain, @shiffman
  • alfredtwo May 16 @ 8:20 PM EDT
    I have suplimental resources for students who want to move beyond what is going on in class. That and I will suggest new projects or add ons to class projects. #csk8
    In reply to @VisionsByVicky, @bquentin3
  • stevenpfloyd May 16 @ 8:20 PM EDT
    Interesting! I’m coding arduino as we tweet here. My son is young and I hadn’t realized how important typing skills are for text based. He’s a little slow :) #csk8
    In reply to @alfredtwo
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:21 PM EDT
    Mostly my students enjoy the transition - it feels more like "real" (even though Scratch IS real) programming to them, but yes I find that some aren't ready. The micro:bit with makecode has been great for this. Some use JavaScript (& going to encourage Python as well). #csk8
    In reply to @alfredtwo
  • bquentin3 May 16 @ 8:21 PM EDT
    It starts as a lesson using #RaspberryPi to do physical computing. They learn to blink LEDs etc. with Scratch, then do the same things with Python so they can compare the 2 languages. I have exntensions ready for the Ss who want to take Python further #csk8
    In reply to @VisionsByVicky
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:21 PM EDT
    Yes, typing is still important. :) #csk8
    In reply to @stevenpfloyd, @alfredtwo
  • alfredtwo May 16 @ 8:23 PM EDT
    Seeing concepts in more than one programming language really helps to bring home concepts #CSk8
    • bquentin3 May 16 @ 8:21 PM EDT
      It starts as a lesson using #RaspberryPi to do physical computing. They learn to blink LEDs etc. with Scratch, then do the same things with Python so they can compare the 2 languages. I have exntensions ready for the Ss who want to take Python further #csk8
      In reply to @VisionsByVicky
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:23 PM EDT
    Chromebooks solve some and can be a problem for others. #csk8
    In reply to @ed_saber, @thecodingtrain, @shiffman
  • KIKIvsIT May 16 @ 8:24 PM EDT
    A2: I like to have backup unplugged lessons at the ready! #csk8
  • mlmiller May 16 @ 8:24 PM EDT
    #csk8 A1 The language chosen has to depend on the goals, the related technologies (eg making devices, robots) and also prior experience. Usually we save Python for grades 7-8, but we do have some very bright youngsters working w it as young as grade 4. (We hide class notation)
    In reply to @VisionsByVicky, @bquentin3
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:25 PM EDT
    A2: We had a day without Internet this year & built Lego models & wrote algorithms for building them. #csk8
  • stevenpfloyd May 16 @ 8:25 PM EDT
    Always exciting to move from blocks to text. Some Ss love the control and speed of text based, once they get the hang of it. #csk8
    In reply to @VisionsByVicky, @alfredtwo
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:25 PM EDT
    I just need to remember to have the printed out and available - if I need to print anything b/c w/o Internet that can't happen. :) #csk8
    In reply to @KIKIvsIT
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:26 PM EDT
    Q3: After reading “Anti-Exams: A different approach to final exams” by @dougbergmanUSA, we are wondering what summative assessment looks like in your CS classes? #csk8 Original post: https://t.co/rCiVTkHFek
  • stevenpfloyd May 16 @ 8:26 PM EDT
    Very true!! Can also make them feel confident to learn even more languages once they realize they’re similar! #csk8
    In reply to @alfredtwo
  • BTwarek May 16 @ 8:26 PM EDT
    A2: it’s also a great opportunity to demystify the internet and web and help boost students’ understanding of why network connectivity periodically faults #csk8
    In reply to @VisionsByVicky, @KIKIvsIT
  • bquentin3 May 16 @ 8:27 PM EDT
    A2 Since most of the time I'm using Scratch, I'm super thankful for the offline editor and the #RaspberryPi for when the internet goes on the fritz. #csk8
  • alfredtwo May 16 @ 8:27 PM EDT
    A3: My end of semester assessment is always a major project. Not only does it show me what students know it helps them put everything together. #csk8
  • mlmiller May 16 @ 8:28 PM EDT
    #csk8 The language matters. For example, Scratch does not allow functions that return values. Terrible omission. Not critical for grade 4 but very bad for grade 7+
    In reply to @stevenpfloyd, @VisionsByVicky, @alfredtwo
  • alfredtwo May 16 @ 8:28 PM EDT
    A3: Projects seem to really motivate students to learn more especially if they have a choice in selecting the project or in designing what options they have. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:28 PM EDT
    Yes, we do use the offline Scratch editor when there's no Internet. Our no Internet day was actually due to no POWER - so no computers of any kind that day. :) #csk8
    In reply to @bquentin3
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:29 PM EDT
    Definitely agree about student having a choice in selecting their project. #csk8
    In reply to @alfredtwo
  • mlmiller May 16 @ 8:29 PM EDT
    #csk8 I think function definition and recursion are more important to learn than loops. And even the loops in block-based languages are somewhat impoverished (eg no for loop such as in Python to iterate over a set of objects). First class citizenship for all objects is also impt
    In reply to @alfredtwo, @VisionsByVicky, @stevenpfloyd
  • Sheena1010 - Moderator May 16 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    A3: A final project which they can do alone or with a partner of their choice - something open-ended that they want to do but with a clear set of expectations- including a presentation of code to the class. (Sorry am joining in late to this chat) #csk8
  • stevenpfloyd May 16 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    Good point. We hope to hit the point where our grade seven teachers are dealing with functions returning values. Hopefully we’ll get there and have to deal with that scratch problem :) #csk8
    In reply to @mlmiller, @VisionsByVicky, @alfredtwo
  • KIKIvsIT May 16 @ 8:31 PM EDT
    A3: I like to have students know at the very beginning of the term that they'll be making a project for a good cause at the end. That way, they pay attention as if the things they learn along the way are tips, rather than assignments. #CSK8
  • ed_saber May 16 @ 8:31 PM EDT
    A3: Projects, presentations, exhibitions. I borrow a lot from Art class processes. We have a Tech Expo at the end of each year to show off projects. I don’t like to grade so it is easy to get a good grade but showing off projects to the community has a more impact #csk8
  • mlmiller May 16 @ 8:31 PM EDT
    #csk8 Q2 Terrible Internet is common when you offer after school. Usually we are limited to guest access, even if we have 36 kids showing up. Nowadays, you don't notice at first because kids are quietly playing with the google doodle.
  • kelpowers5 May 16 @ 8:31 PM EDT
    We like to use projects for our middle school students that also include prompts similar to the CS Principles Create Performance Tasks #csk8
    In reply to @VisionsByVicky, @dougbergmanUSA
  • bquentin3 May 16 @ 8:31 PM EDT
    A3 CS is generally only part of whatever project my Ss are working on in the STEM lab. Usually assess whatever concept was central to the overall project (loops, variable, conditionals, etc.) #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:31 PM EDT
    A3: I don't do specific summative assessments (don't tell anyone). Students complete short assignments & larger projects and write about them on their Google Sites. Their understanding of what they did is what I assess. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:32 PM EDT
    Do you have requirements like they need to use nested loops or create at least 2 variables, etc? #csk8
    In reply to @bquentin3
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:32 PM EDT
    I should review those. #csk8
    In reply to @kelpowers5, @dougbergmanUSA
  • mlmiller May 16 @ 8:33 PM EDT
    #csk8 yes I should have mentioned makecode for the microbit. Another great block-based tool few have heard of is robotmagic (from New Zealand)
    In reply to @VisionsByVicky, @alfredtwo
  • LaurieAnastasio May 16 @ 8:33 PM EDT
    We use @BitsboxKids in our elementary classes as a bridge to JavaScript. The kids love it! #csk8
    In reply to @stevenpfloyd, @VisionsByVicky, @alfredtwo, @BitsboxKids
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:34 PM EDT
    Welcome, Sheena. Glad you made it. I try to do this, as well, but am really running into the "there's not enough time" problem this year. #csk8
    In reply to @Sheena1010
  • mlmiller May 16 @ 8:34 PM EDT
    #csk8 If you teach Python in grade 8 or lower, PLEASE let me know the name of your school/district. I will gladly share my findings. I am trying to document that block-based coding is the beginning, not the END.
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:34 PM EDT
    Does anyone LIKE to grade? :) #csk8
    In reply to @ed_saber
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:34 PM EDT
    Ooh, I don't know that one. Got a link? #csk8
    In reply to @mlmiller, @alfredtwo
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:35 PM EDT
    Q4: Current events and #ethicalCS have us wondering how you bring discussions of ethics into your #csk8 classes? Blog post: https://t.co/X0kdVwrz7r
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:35 PM EDT
    Yes, it is the beginning! #csk8
    In reply to @mlmiller
  • alfredtwo May 16 @ 8:35 PM EDT
    BTW if you are using MicroBits and have Windows 10 or some andrid and IoS devices there is a MakeCode to Microbits app that really makes things easier. Especially that it automatically finds the microbit for downloading #CSk8
  • mlmiller May 16 @ 8:35 PM EDT
    #csk8 Chromebooks still way too limited for many things in CS. Being able to connect interesting devices (eg over USB) is what brings the ideas to life for Ss. Remember the original floor turtle. I'm writing a book entitled, "That shouldn't matter." Last sentence: "It matters."
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:36 PM EDT
    Wow, guest access & 36 kids. That would be a problem at our school for sure. #csk8
    In reply to @mlmiller
  • Sheena1010 - Moderator May 16 @ 8:37 PM EDT
    Yes time is always the problem with end of year projects. If I am short on time, or have students who need more support - I give away large parts of the code and make it a 'Modify significantly to impress me' project #csk8
    In reply to @VisionsByVicky
  • mlmiller May 16 @ 8:37 PM EDT
    #csk8 A3 I think a final project measured against a thoughtful rubric should be a key part of summative assessment.
  • ed_saber May 16 @ 8:37 PM EDT
    A4: Thanks for the shout-out to #ethicalCS. We are on live on the last Wednesday of each month. On May 30 at 8 pm ET we will be talking about engagement with ethics. Please join us. Lesson and activities are being shared on the hashtag. #csk8 #csforall
  • stevenpfloyd May 16 @ 8:37 PM EDT
    Perhaps you have a different clientele, here in Ontario recursion finds its way into our curriculum in grade 12. Although we certainly have younger students who require it for some projects. #csk8
    In reply to @mlmiller, @alfredtwo, @VisionsByVicky
  • bquentin3 May 16 @ 8:37 PM EDT
    Usually, yes. But it depends on the project and what the Ss are trying to make. I'm lucky that I don't have to give formal grades and I can give my Ss a lot of choice and risk taking opportunities. #csk8
    In reply to @VisionsByVicky
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:37 PM EDT
    Ah, but I have my students save to their folder and then pull over to the micro:bit even though they could save directly. It helps them to understand what download is and learn a bit of file management. #csk8
    In reply to @alfredtwo
  • KIKIvsIT May 16 @ 8:37 PM EDT
    A4: Some people make these specific lessons...and that's a great start...but it really does need to be an axiom that is restated every possible chance as students are on machines (no matter for what subject.) #CSK8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:38 PM EDT
    Micro:bits work well with Chromebooks which is nice. #csk8
    In reply to @mlmiller
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:38 PM EDT
    Ah, great idea ... tough to do if I let them choose a project of their own though. #csk8
    In reply to @Sheena1010
  • kjean26 May 16 @ 8:39 PM EDT
    A2: This is definitely something I have to plan ahead for! It happened to us this year, but it was only the scratch site that was down. #beprepared #csk8
    • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:28 PM EDT
      Yes, we do use the offline Scratch editor when there's no Internet. Our no Internet day was actually due to no POWER - so no computers of any kind that day. :) #csk8
      In reply to @bquentin3
  • john_w_moran May 16 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    A4: I think ethical issues arise organically to a great extent. As issues arise, we teach proper ethics.. everything in context as much as possible! #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    Most definitely. I am always reminding them about something that falls under the ethics umbrella. #csk8
    In reply to @KIKIvsIT
  • mlmiller May 16 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    #csk8 https://t.co/QMecYKRKh1 You can control multiple, different types of robots from a single world
    In reply to @VisionsByVicky, @alfredtwo
  • alfredtwo May 16 @ 8:41 PM EDT
    A4: Etihics come up in all of the classes I teach. I think it has to be included in every course at every level. #csk8
  • ed_saber May 16 @ 8:42 PM EDT
    A deep engagement with #ethicalCS will not happen by chance, by just sharing news article, or by doing digital citizenship. It require a thoughtful planned approach that melds coding with problems and interdisciplinary learning. #csk8
  • bquentin3 May 16 @ 8:42 PM EDT
    A4 My Ss practice their digital citizenship in the Scratch online community. I create studios for projects and they practice leaving helpful, positive comments. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:42 PM EDT
    A4: My students get a lot of the ownership things involved with #ethicalCS and are good about crediting others, etc. I need to be more intentional about teaching them to design with others in mind. So much to do and so little time. #csk8
  • Sheena1010 - Moderator May 16 @ 8:42 PM EDT
    We have standard based grading, on 'Algo & Prog' std, I give a number based on their overall growth in the year - some of it is points on a quiz, rest could be 'completed' on a group project. Do not have to show all the details behind my final grade. Easy and not easy! #csk8
    In reply to @bquentin3, @VisionsByVicky
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:43 PM EDT
    Q5: What is happening with #CSEd in your school, district, or state that excites (or worries) you? #csk8 Inspired by: https://t.co/s8TIakzdJk
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:43 PM EDT
    Yes, having students comment on others work in the @Scratch community is a great way to learn & teach about treating others respectfully online. #csk8
    In reply to @bquentin3, @scratch
  • john_w_moran May 16 @ 8:43 PM EDT
    John William Moran, k12 Technology Applications joining #csk8 a little late.. San Antonio Texas #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:44 PM EDT
    I think "easy and not easy" can describe most grading. :) #csk8
    In reply to @Sheena1010, @bquentin3
  • varkgirl May 16 @ 8:45 PM EDT
    Teachers - Have you tried Prodigy? 🧙‍♂️💻 My students are OBSESSED 👩‍💻👨‍💻 🤩 and hardly realize they are practicing #math skills! ➕➖➗✖️🕑📏🧠 #edtechmath #ElemMathChat #csk8 #21stedchat (PS it is 🆓🤯!) Check it out here ➡️ https://t.co/Lze81tSOFL
  • alfredtwo May 16 @ 8:45 PM EDT
    A5: New Hampshire has approved a new CS teacher certification. Soon (fingers crossed) it will be part of the definition of an adiquate education. Guidelines for that will follow. #csk8
  • john_w_moran May 16 @ 8:45 PM EDT
    A5: we’ve had tremendous growth in Elementary (excites) and new addictions at high school, I worry about the void at middle slowing the k12 pipeline... #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:45 PM EDT
    Welcome, we are currently on Q5: What is happening with #CSEd in your school, district, or state that excites (or worries) you? #csk8
    In reply to @john_w_moran
  • ed_saber May 16 @ 8:46 PM EDT
    A5: I am excited to work w/ @ProcessingOrg to help bring #creativecoding to K12 classrooms. We are doing events like Creative Coding Fests - https://t.co/TMwWVWV4WG - and sharing curriculum like @p5xjs which is a great transition from @scratch. Holler if you are interested #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:46 PM EDT
    That is exciting. Is it for high school only? #csk8
    In reply to @alfredtwo
  • Sheena1010 - Moderator May 16 @ 8:46 PM EDT
    A5: Excited @ CS Integration into all subjects at my district #LASD. Not just our STEM teachers, but even our grade level content teachers are coming up with projects that just happen to need coding! And I get invited to integrate into Math/Science in 6-8. So much more CS #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:46 PM EDT
    Yes, Middle School needs to be involved or you lose that momentum. #csk8
    In reply to @john_w_moran
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:47 PM EDT
    That's awesome! #csk8
    In reply to @Sheena1010
  • LaurieAnastasio May 16 @ 8:47 PM EDT
    I was just doing this with 2nd graders today. It took them a couple times to know they needed 2 steps on the Chromebook but they all got it :) #csk8
    In reply to @VisionsByVicky, @alfredtwo
  • alfredtwo May 16 @ 8:47 PM EDT
    A5: Two years ago my (Private Catholic) school made two semesters of CS a graduation requirement. We've had to add new courses and more sections of existing ones. Been a blast! #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:48 PM EDT
    Excited that CA is getting CS Standards https://t.co/ShMuk2kskq #csk8
  • stevenpfloyd May 16 @ 8:48 PM EDT
    That’s cool!! #csk8
    In reply to @Sheena1010
  • alfredtwo May 16 @ 8:49 PM EDT
    The full pipeline is important. If students get CS in elementary and don't have it in middle school you lose momentum. Then of course you need CS in high school as well #CSk8 Schools should work together!
    In reply to @VisionsByVicky, @john_w_moran
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:50 PM EDT
    A5: Concerned at my school that our outdated hardware will be a major issue next year. Already can't use @codeorg CS Discoveries Unit 6 b/c of 32-bit. Hoping to be resourceful and find a solution this summer. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:51 PM EDT
    Q6: Our questions tonight were inspired by blog posts & tweets from the #CSEd community. Who inspires you with their blog posts or tweets? Please share links! #csk8
  • mlmiller May 16 @ 8:51 PM EDT
    #csk8 Yes, very much so, and they look reasonable, too. But equally disappointed that CA has not stepped up with any funding. So access to CS in CA is mandated but unfunded. We are hardly leading the nation with this, esp. given our budget surplus!
  • LaurieAnastasio May 16 @ 8:52 PM EDT
    Exactly! I have things rolling in Elementary, then we have nothing in 6th, then great options in 7th/8th. #csk8
    In reply to @alfredtwo, @VisionsByVicky, @john_w_moran
  • Sheena1010 - Moderator May 16 @ 8:52 PM EDT
    Agree- CS in elementary is easier to implement in terms of PD/time, in high school there are AP classes. Middle school needs support in terms of PD to make it effective. Am working on PD that specifically helps middle school teachers this summer https://t.co/MWs8GbN31l #csk8
    In reply to @alfredtwo, @VisionsByVicky, @john_w_moran
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:52 PM EDT
    Agreed, funding is needed if standards are to be implemented at school. This seems to be a problem in many states. Teacher training as well. Hopefully, we'll solve these problems. #csk8
    In reply to @mlmiller
  • mlmiller May 16 @ 8:53 PM EDT
    #csk8 Yes! and high schools need an elective for kids who didn't get access before HS, one last chance to tempt them to learn a bit. You can't only offer the AP class unless you have a pipeline from at least 4th grade on (or don't care about equity).
    In reply to @alfredtwo, @VisionsByVicky, @john_w_moran
  • bquentin3 May 16 @ 8:53 PM EDT
    Exactly! Ss leave my elementary and as they fan out to a number of middle school I know not all of they are getting the opportunity to continue their CS journey. #csk8
    In reply to @alfredtwo, @VisionsByVicky, @john_w_moran
  • Sheena1010 - Moderator May 16 @ 8:54 PM EDT
    A6: @alfredtwo has a great blog on CS that can get you thinking. Check it out! #csk8
  • john_w_moran May 16 @ 8:54 PM EDT
    A6: I’ve have been totally in awe of the great work @MomonMarshas been doing w @YouthCodeJam here in San Antonio!! She’s brought so many opps to kids in all areas not to mention tremendous PD for teachers! I’m loving being a part of her CS Collaborative #csk8
    • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:51 PM EDT
      Q6: Our questions tonight were inspired by blog posts & tweets from the #CSEd community. Who inspires you with their blog posts or tweets? Please share links! #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:54 PM EDT
    A6: You need to follow #csk8 #csinsf (they do AWESOME things) #ethicalCS @birv2 @billmarsland @Sheena1010 @BTwarek @owenpeery I'm looking for K-8 CS bloggers. Know any?
  • alfredtwo May 16 @ 8:55 PM EDT
    Lots of people insire me. On Twitter @VisionsByVick @DuPriestMath @Sheena1010 @ed_saber to name a few. #CSk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:55 PM EDT
    Thanks, Alfred. #csk8
  • coffeechugbooks May 16 @ 8:55 PM EDT
    I teach Python to students grades 3-8 in my nonprofit and often times using Python with microbits with upper elementary when they want their robots to speak. #csk8
    In reply to @mlmiller
  • Sheena1010 - Moderator May 16 @ 8:56 PM EDT
    Yes, most high schools give either 0 or sometimes 1 CS class before the AP - not enough for kids who did not do CS in middle school. There should be at least 2 classes of CS before AP to give every high schooler a chance even if they did not take it in middle school #csk8
    In reply to @mlmiller, @alfredtwo, @VisionsByVicky, @john_w_moran
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:56 PM EDT
    This is sad. #csk8
    In reply to @bquentin3, @alfredtwo, @john_w_moran
  • alfredtwo May 16 @ 8:56 PM EDT
    A6: I keep a list of CS education blogs at https://t.co/VWcxuuVhmm #csk8
  • mlmiller May 16 @ 8:57 PM EDT
    #csk8 In school or out-of-school setting? Demographics of the kids?
    In reply to @coffeechugbooks
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:57 PM EDT
    yes, the text to speech on micro:bit is definitely an enticement to use Python! #csk8
    In reply to @coffeechugbooks, @mlmiller
  • Sheena1010 - Moderator May 16 @ 8:57 PM EDT
    Thanks! We are a small community, and we all learn from each other #csk8
    In reply to @alfredtwo, @DuPriestMath, @ed_saber
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:58 PM EDT
    A6: Follow everyone in this chat! They're all inspiring and tweet great things. #csk8
  • LaurieAnastasio May 16 @ 8:58 PM EDT
    I wish our district was showing any signs of a budget surplus :(. Lots of cuts to valuable programs and staff. #csk8
    In reply to @mlmiller
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    Thank you for participating in tonight’s What’s Happening in #CSEd #csk8 chat.
  • mlmiller May 16 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    #csk8 CA's surplus is at the state level, not districts, sadly.
    In reply to @LaurieAnastasio
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    An archive of this chat will be posted in the K-8 Computer Science Teachers g+ Community at https://t.co/Pun3Zpe48l Please continue the conversation there or on Twitter using the #csk8 hashtag
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator May 16 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    They need to pass it down! #csk8
    In reply to @mlmiller, @LaurieAnastasio
  • kelpowers5 May 16 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    A6: Mark Guzdial's Blog is always inspiring. #csk8
    In reply to @VisionsByVicky
  • alfredtwo May 16 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    I would say that @DuPriestMath may be my faverite #csk8 blog at https://t.co/7XbOE92aaq We really need more k-8 cs teachers blogging.
  • everydaycs May 16 @ 9:00 PM EDT
    .@Illinois_Alma + @UChicagoSTEMEd + @thisisUIC = #csk8 Learning Trajectories for Everyday Computing Check out our video in the @NSF #STEMVideoHall (https://t.co/VDDiufRFBc) & vote for it using the Public Choice option below the video! #CSforAll