#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 April 6, 2016
The CSTA K-8 Task Group welcomes you to chat. Our topic tonight is: Teaching Coding with Block-based vs Text-based Languages
Our moderators tonight will be and
Before we get started, please take a moment to introduce yourself so we know who’s joining us tonight.
I am Sheena, a CS teacher in California for 5+ years, CSTA K-8 board member. One of the moderators tonight
Glad to see you again, Mark.
I'm Vicky, K-8 technology teacher, in the Los Angeles area & one of the moderators tonight. Thanks for joining us.
Amber here, Sunnyvale, CA; I teach STEAM & CS to TK-5th. First chat for me!
I'm Laurie. 3rd grade and Tech Lead Teacher in San Marcos, CA.
I'm Meg. I'm a curriculum developer, teacher trainer, and former CS teacher
Hi again team, Dawn here, middle school CS in Colorado
Hi . First timer following a tweet chat. I'm mainly here to observe and learn
Hello! Maria from western NY - school librarian 5-8. Looking for ways to improve the coding projects of our after school Maker Club.
Theresa from SW MN. Teach 5-8 technology
Hi . I'm Ryan Smith from Bracebridge, Ontario Canada. I'm a ICT consultant and i help teach scratch in gr. 2-8 classes.
Feel free to lurk or join in!
Hello. It's Scott from San Diego!
Welcome! Glad to have you.
Glad you could make it Dawn since I know you use text-based coding w/your students.
hello from Fort Collins. we are neighbors!
Todd from planet Mongo chiming in! Hi everyone!
Hello all! Nice to see some familiar faces and some new ones.
Hi! Susan here from Nebraska. I'm a K-5 Computer Science teacher. 😊
Chris from Atlanta, GA. Researching integrated CS at elementary level.
I think this is a topic many of us care about - lots to share and learn ! Welcome all
Welcome, Susan. Love what you do with students. Glad you could make it.
Previously lived in Highlands Ranch, CO. Miss the mountains.
. Thanks for the tweet earlier!
Ian from Huntsville, Ontario - teach cs in grades 11 and 12.
Looking forward to this. We're using both block and text programming here.
Hey folks, guess what time it is! Time for - Brian here from .
Love newcomers to the chat. Glad you could make it.
Glad to have you here and learn about the high school side of things.
Hello, Brian. Good to see you.
The chat is a structured chat which means questions will be numbered Q1 for Question 1, Q2 for Question 2, etc.
Hello from Florida! Michael here. PreK-5 |8 CompSci
First timer here, I use Snap! from Berkeley to teach High School Intro CS in Seattle
Answers should start with A1 for the answer to Q1, A2 to answer Q2, etc. matching the question being answered.
Welcome. Glad to have a Snap user here.
Question 1 is coming right up from - Be watching for it.
Q1: What languages/websites/apps do you use to teach coding and for which grade levels?
Welcome so glad you could join! This is a great chat that happens every two weeks. Please join again!
Are you using the BNJ course materials?
When did you sneak in, Todd? :)
A1: I use Scratch for 6th grade, Processing and Arduino for 7th/8th grade plus whatever languages come up that are useful.
A1 Scratch, JavaScript and looking into app inventor for grades 6-8
A1 Snap, Scratch, Anything free.
With our younger ones, we're using and blocks, and Javascript intro thru Code Academy and
A1: 9th grade: Scratch, HTML/CSS, Python
Okay to answer in your intro. What grade levels again?
A1 K-1 .org, 2-5 Scratch 4-5 Logo in Microworlds,
What grade levels with Codecademy?
A1: for lower elementary. & kahnacademy for upper elem
2-5th afterschool program,we're using and blocks, and Javascript intro thru Code Academy and
A1. for grade 9 math. Kodable for 5 year old at home
Love that you're using Microworlds. Do the Ss like it?
(I keep forgetting to use A1 - sorry)
A1: Our school board coding project focus is for gr. 4-6 but I have done CS work in gr 2 - 8 classes.
Is see mention of Snap. What is it?
I use mostly Scratch, but also Tynker and starting App Inventor for grades 6-8
ditto the "anything free". Don't pay for software :) save up for hardware.
A1: Scratch, Processing.js/Javascript, Arduino in grade 6, Python in gr 7/8.
Q1 High School, mostly 10th-12th graders, using Snap! - I have started showing some of the more advanced students Python though
They do! I have used it for a long time and the kids always get so excited!
Our students really seem to enjoy - they were usingn it after school today!
can you elaborate on the school board's involvement?
Do you have Python installed?
Snap is a version of Scratch with more advanced features, used in UC Berkeley for a college course, now high school
A1: K and 1st used games - Kodable, The Foos, etc.
Do you have a school or district account?
Have been teaching Python for few months to 7/8 - works really well for my use
A1: what are folks thoughts on CodeCombat for this age?
No set accounts at the moment. With the interest we have, that should be a next step!
. The ones using CodeAcademy are my after school tech kids 3rd to 5th.
our board () provides 4 meetings for a teacher from each elementary school to come and learn/share.
And not flash so it works on iOS https://t.co/j0o9N40qT4
Snap is a version of Scratch with more advanced features, used in UC Berkeley for a college course, now high school
I would be really interested in seeing a college class taught with a block based language!
For basics, Codecademy to gauge interest. For install, they are using their own laptops. Planning 2 explore Cloud9 IDE
. I have had some Ss try and like. Mostly 7-8 graders.
A1 The Foos BeeBots So many resources...
I know my kids love it for but I have never done anything more with it.I wonder too!
Beauty and Joy of Programming in UC Berkeley - 1 semester class on Snap - blocks, and super successfull!
I have a long list of block programming languages/tools on my blog at https://t.co/HZtcsJoagN a lot of ages covered.
Grant from Toronto. I use App Inventor in Grade 10 and plan to in Grade 11 next year
Interesting, are the 4 meetings about computer science or any topic in particular?
Pythonroom provides a free online Python language book combined w/ classroom creation abilities. Anyone can teach coding
jp, teacher & Master Teacher, will start teaching CS next year, excited. Wisconsin, Hacker, Maker, Nerd, FabLab
I like TouchDevelop for my MS.
Ts get 5 chromebooks and some other toys (to be given on friday. To enable coding "pod" in class. Hashtag is
a1 TouchDevelop and Appinventor for and Lego ev3 for grade7/8 outreach
A1: I've used Kodu, Alice and Scratch with middle school students
You also wrote a nice blog on block vs text right? - please share link later on in the chat for all
I like Alice but just have a problem b/c of having to install it.
Our Ks use block code. When will the shift happen so it's not new in college?
Switch to Python works well in my experience to explore text-based
We just purchased these through a grant. Excited to get some projects going.
Good evening ! Excited to listen, learn and discuss in my first Twitter chat.
When my Ss used it a few yrs ago, they did it themselves.
I use with my HS freshmen but I think it would work well with middle school as well
the meetings are to develop skills and build capacity (Ts are not required to have any background)
Love Dash, Dot and Blockly app!!!
. I have Ss using Kodu this week. Really liking creating.
Q2: What are the advantages and disadvantages of teaching coding using block-based languages?
. Our program ran with the CSFirst Scratch tutorials. A couple kids BEGGED for Javascript ...
Micro-bit Micro-bit Micro-bit!
. I'll be working with a bunch of NYC middle school teachers on Python over the summer so that they can make the transition
. Just received ozoblocks not out of box yet. Lego Wedo is on the list to get.
when we say we teach Scratch, it is sometimes SNAP, because big idea of decomposition is better implemented
. ...2/2 so we are learning together. Kind of a choose your own adventure class ;)
A2) Adv - no syntax errors. Disadv - less room for creativity.
we also like Python as a 1st text lang
A2 block languages can quickly motivate students (PRO) block languages can then frustrate highly motivated students (CON)
A2: Block based languages allow for focus on big ideas and not syntax. Easy on-ramp
A1infinity (so so many) compucraft
we are enthusiastic about bringing some of our content to PythonRoom (pending a few bug fixes and feature requests)
A2: Advantage: anyone can get started. Disadvantage: Ts are not really looking at Ss logic behind the code as everything works.
A2 Students successful quicker with block based languages - no syntax issues
A2 Advantage is visual blocks increase accessibility & interest. Drawback is Ss may not want to make the leap to trying text code.
Consider checking out AppLab also, it is a hybrid that lets you switch between block mode (visual) and text mode (JavaScript)
. So far BBC Micro:Bit only available in the UK. Will be nice when we can get them in the US
A2: Pros: Students get more done quickly, excited and engaged. Cons: Think blocks is not real coding!
A2: I love that there are block based apps/websites for pre-readers.
A2 have a lot of second language learners. Helps with no typo mistakes.
visit https://t.co/NpazMb8T7L and create your free account! Also message hello@pythonroom.com to set up a free demonstration
I was just going to say "allows expression of creativity" so it's funny how we see that differently
A2 Bock based are easier for students to debug when first learning a coding language.
we used to use Alice (wonderful idea) but found it too buggy.You can do 3D stuff w SLNOVA instead
I think it's up to us to show Ss that it is "real" coding. https://t.co/StdS6QWGtF
A2: Pros: Students get more done quickly, excited and engaged. Cons: Think blocks is not real coding!
Fellows get a pilot. I'm expecting any day now.
A2: Minimize frustration. Focus on the logic, not the code itself.
A2: Block-based languages aren't intimidating to students who don't see themselves as tech savvy.
A1: I guess I do teach which is a text based language to program robots in the platform
A2 Multiple AP CS Principles curricula use block based languages
So true. That is a serious advantage.
Agree about no syntax errors, but some block-based languages still allow for massive creativity: App Inventor, ScratchX...
A2: Immediately seeing something on the screen and pathway to success is motivating. Tried teaching Java and it scared people off :)
A2 Adv can differentiate for Ss abilities. Snap used for . Ss moved to advanced levels when ready.
I disagree. Coding is a way of thinking whether writing syntax or not
... and to teachers as well. https://t.co/mce19GESiD
A2: Block-based languages aren't intimidating to students who don't see themselves as tech savvy.
Totally agree! My 1 Ss were rocking the code today!
A2: I would also say block-based languages encourage play... snap a few blocks together and something will happen, planned or not.
A2 Advantages.. Less syntax, more accessible to young people, Disadvantages.. Less flexibility, a bit constraining
When we start HOC first year, parent who is in the field said "This is really what we do!" He was impressed. :)
A2: Block-based creates a solid conceptual foundation, Disadvantages for older students: motivation and transition readiness
A2 Why don’t students see block based coding as “real” coding? Is that what teachers tell them?
Why isn't block coding "real"? What if one could develop more complex apps using blocks? AppInventor does this a bit.
Have you seen the AP ConpSci principles course for from ?
A2: Ss can focus on the computational thinking with a lower barrier to entry.
I didn’t say NO creativity. I said LESS creativity.
I think that's more a statement about Java's deficiencies as a first language than anything else
Scratch/SNAP/Blockly are easy on-ramps but a few key ideas such as decomposition (teaching computer a new word) are not well supported
Yes I need to keep selling 'block based' is real to my students and sometimes to parents. They want Java in grade 3!
I have seen this as well mostly after I start using text-based. They say they feel like they are really coding.
I notice this too. Our students who find reading challenging can dig in to the block coding activities & experience success.
A2: pro: low level of entry. My Kindergarten daughter has some mean scratch skills
Yes...I like the sandbox style of it
A2: So glad we have block options. Easy entry for littles that transfers later.
Plenty of intro college courses use block based as well. https://t.co/vIW7jQM91x
A2 Multiple AP CS Principles curricula use block based languages
I think Sheena means Ss think blocks is not real coding, yes? I've seen that too, some just want to get to written lang
it isn't the app complexity it is the lack of modern semantics for functions and variables
Is she using Scratch or ScratchJr?
A2: Doing complicated math, managing data structures or lots of variables get really cumbersome in a block based language.
low floor , high ceiling. That is what was designed to be... so it does work for all ages as a learning tool
Blocks would quickly become untenable for professional uses
A2 block based doesn't always require language skills, easier for ELL or non readers, and everyone
I also believe it's all about the thinking... Still problem solving, just w/out syntax.
True, but I am not teaching professional programmers - for the most part anyway. :)
there is no reason that one could not build a block based language that does things like functions and variable scope properly
A2 because most applications they see (eg. Facebook, Amazon, Uber app, etc) are not created with block based languages
what about alice? Are any of you using that (It's what we use before text based coding)
I agree - when the code gets more complex, the blocks do not fit on the screen - especially long joins or conditionals!
Do all students respond in the same way to blocK-based languages? Are there any cultural, gender, racial differences in responses?
the new apple swift/xcode has a hybrid block feel to it...
Yes! Not having to deal with syntax early on frees them up to create, fail and iterate more quickly.
. there are amazing complex projects in . If they think they've "done Scratch" we point out advanced
Oh yeah, the joins can get crazy.
we have dropped it from our offerings due to bugs, though idea was great. moved to SLNOVA instead
Yes...takes the stress away if spelling is an issue. Can focus on the real problem solving
Younger students like text based and can do well there too. See article on Logo vs Scratch study https://t.co/LFFgH8NfSe
A2: I provide a few examples of real visual programming languages, such as LabView for Elec Engineers and Unreal Engine Blueprints
A2 like when block languages show transition to text based. Less syntax issues with blocks but find way faster to type text programs
That is a good question. Anyone have ideas?
which is precisely the reason why proper "make your own block" functionality should be implemented.
I need to look into SLNOVA
Why do Harvard & Berkeley use blocks-based languages in their intro courses?
I'd argue that built in functions are just as much "blocks" - no syntax required other than import
A2: Spoke w/, a developer for Snap, he disagrees that visual language is not a "real" language.
Yes that is what I say - also tell them it is used in college/high school...
Do you not teach the students to create their variables in Scratch? It solves that problem.
Please share how to do this! My kids are all into
while swift is exciting, i don't find xcode suitable for K-8
and structures and object-oriented programming eventually :)
Do you think kids understanding is harmed in this regard?
The Hour of Code is a great entry point and not a destination. Keep moving!
because Prof Brian Harvey wrote the book on teaching programming in elementary school (CS through LOGO) and showed it scales
Would be curious what Papert would say to your tweet😃
most intro courses don't include a lot of programming, they focus on core CS principles. Probably to appeal to non-majors
Lots of active research on block based learning. Droplet is a tool that goes back and forth. Used for https://t.co/O9XcvUIB7Q App Lab
Q3: When and how do you transition from block-based to text-based languages?
Because they are teaching people to think and not focus on syntax. Imagine writing a paper and not worrying about spelling.
While you're all here at the review for the draft 2016 CSTA K-12 CS Standards is open https://t.co/mS817RgfuF We need your feedback
This is where I am struggling! I want to get my students to dig a bit deeper into coding endeavors. The interest is there!
Yes, I do. No real functions, no recursion. Limited transfer to real math. SNAP is much better than Scratch on these
Agreed, I was saying that to show that quasi block coding has real use in real development . there are many HS Ts here
We'll be reminding about that at the end of the chat as well!
Heck, I'd be interested in what Papert would say to this whole Twitter chat!
A3 I would want the transition to be purposeful - Ss learning text based coding skills for a particular reason/project/challenge.
Papert showed us what students did with Logo :text based, and Ss did functions from the start!
I think he would tell Mitch "great job, now support functions and recursion"
Just curious do you think Ss really "get" the concepts and transfer them well when they move on to text-based languages?
A3: In my job I work on solutions to scaffolding the transitions for middle school students from blocks to text.
It's when you have many variables to manage, longer math & boolean expressions, and a big program in general
Agree on Snap. Just wish it had the community and resources.
A3 Using Ss are writing some code. Options are available when they show interest to move on.
I typically move on because my Ss want to.
I'm not sure my students are making the connection about this.
A3 3/4 the year in Scratch. JavaScript rest. We also compete in robotic competitions throughout the year do not want confusion.
Organizing your code is harder in Scratch, at least for me. Maybe a kid could teach me
And what are some of the solutions?
Did you miss Q3? Q3: When and how do you transition from block-based to text-based languages?
Based on my own anecdotal experience, I feel like transference from blocks to text is an issue. Would love research
A3: 6th gr - we do a unit on Scratch and another on Processing.js/Javascript on KA, Just diff ways to code, students get this quickly.
A3 - I differentiate the transition. Sometimes they'll be coding something and I'll say, 'Let's try it in another language!'
A3 Working on lessons that allow students to create something similar using block and text based starting in 3rd.
there is a recent book on programming it w python on rpi we are adopting. java not appropriate gr for 4-5
Agree! Hard for me to make this transition happen. I need to improve! :)
A3: Somewhat arbitrary but I use text-based when I have a whole semester instead of a quarter - so 7th/8th grade
A3: Have Ts tried the physical computing with the visual languages yet? There are so many engaging projects using the
yes, I think deliberately doing this helps that transfer for knowledge. Wondering if I should start earlier?
Ss just see it as diff ways, no transfer issue. Just they can not make the same projects as easily
In addition our elementary feeders are really, really good at teaching keyboarding so many students transition easily.
Interesting. Is that because of the ramp up time to the language?
That is a good idea. It might help Ss to make the connection if different ways to code are presented in that way.
we have with some good success
Blocks to text solutions: a defined set of cmds to pick from, solutions to syntax frustration, friendly feedback, combo of dx & play
A3) I usually lets kids decide when to transition with my advice. It would be unfair to suggest an age as a standard of learning.
A3. Transition when students plateau. Often then say "I know Scratch, want more" but in fact their understanding is shallow
A3 I incorporate both in ICS3C (gr 11 college), students pick from touchdevelop, appinventor, arduino or javascript. Uni -C#
. I wish I had enough experience myself to try something like this. Still learning myself
Yes typing is not an issue. The { and ; is bit difficult so I see more success with Python than JavaScript
.DuPriestMath I get 23 days or 1/2 quarter with each grade. Time is precious.
yes, I find this as well. They think they "know" but they really don't. https://t.co/8sNAv63ShF
A3. Transition when students plateau. Often then say "I know Scratch, want more" but in fact their understanding is shallow
A3 Use block based as an intro/warm up like then few lines of text just like you start w/small stacks, add more lines, loops
I think a huge part of this is making sure Ss understand CT concepts, not just how to use Scratch...
Would like to make some classroom visuals showing blocks and the corresponding text based code. Think even young can start to see.
my fav recent discovery is ScratchX extension to run EV3 mindstorms
said research shows kids who learn block-based code get the concepts. Kids who learn text-based code feel smarter tho.
Agree. Just changing to a diff language can re-engage students. So move in a diff grade/class just to keep interest alive
Absolutely but the how to do that is the tough part. You think they get it but find they don't really.
. Just rec'd 2 of them to use. Trying to incorporate in our Tiger Time enrichment opport.
Totally agree Brian. I find kids self select when they are ready and sometimes switch back and forth. They are flexible!
There is some very cool ScratchX stuff.
Say what? Tell me more, please! https://t.co/u1OCLrCNbs
my fav recent discovery is ScratchX extension to run EV3 mindstorms
Both https://t.co/e4rwfISv4g tutorials and pencil code show the text under the hood for the blocks... you can use it to show
Thanks as it has been a while since I looked at the ScratchX site.
Yep, agreed! That's why assessment is still a huge issue that really needs solving
Anyone use https://t.co/jRAEYFqTYR for transitioning from blocks to text? Really wish Scratch would offer that bridge.
I guess so. I like being able to slow down with a text based language to give kids time to understand the structure
A3 Block to text can mirror the transition to the progress of our children as they transition into readers. Big picture thoughts
I shudder at that word though. Do not want CS to be another "tested" subject.
be careful not to let parents select text when kids are not ready
Yes, I love showing kids that, but find they don't view it often enough to make a connection.
I think it might be a trade-off for making CS more accessible to all students though.
yes App Lab looks interesting.
. My 26 year old son loves creating Twine stories.
A3: I did a writeup on how AppLab handles the transition, watch blocks -> JavaScript when clicking show text https://t.co/WtsdylvyRi
ScratchX is experimental v including experimental extensions like Mindstorms (Mac only so far, Win doesn't work, no Chrome)
I think it is not needed. When they start coding in text, they will see it is the same repeat loops, variables etc.
anyone have chatroom suggestions? Please&thanks :) participate is moving too fast, or is there a slowdown speed setting?
Q4: What are the advantages and disadvantages of teaching coding using text-based languages?
we could make a list of design criteria for Scratch's successor. The UCB folks might build it! ;-)
it's hard to read everything.
A4: Pros: Think it is real! Cons:A lot of work to get graphics/games working so frustrating for younger students.
And CS is perfect for non-standardized, portfolio based assessment. Show those artifacts!
A3 - If the focus is on pedagogy, any language can be used pretty successfully. I do find syntax can be overwhelming for some
A4: typing and syntax can lead to high levels of frustration and losing interest.
A4 Beginning students struggle with syntax and lose focus on the real learning with text based languages.
i agree. great community, pretty feeble tool (twitter)
A4: Pros: Think text coding is real! Cons:A lot of work to get graphics/games working so frustrating for younger students.
There will be an archive and you can tweet using the hashtag later and people will answer. :)
I was soo proud after finishing the course I new 1 thing my 3rd grd kiddo didn't ;)
A4 Text based coding languages may pose more challenges for Ss with reading difficulties. Balance between text & block is needed.
Q4 Adv of text: real functions, real variables, more power; disadv: less accessible initially
A4: I have found Ss have a problem transferring the work they are doing in something like Khan to actually writing JS.
A4: I think there is an advantage to planning, paying attention to details instead of throwing blocks together for anything to work.
So right! CS is so much more than just coding.
but LOGO and Python show how to minimize/reduce syntactic barriers
For sure, I have those Ss and debugging is an issue for them b/c they don't really know what they put together https://t.co/EajhfNLjDO
A4: I think there is an advantage to planning, paying attention to details instead of throwing blocks together for anything to work.
A4) Writing syntax is the only disadvantage.
A4: Con: Is more challenging for younger kids, Pro: They HAVE to spell and punctuate correctly! Win for the teacher!
a4 pro: power! Steeper learning curve but more potential Cons: SPELLING COUNTS
Good problem to have - We post archive on https://t.co/5WMiomKEV6 and can do a slower off twitter conversation there
A4 - I don't see any disadvantages. There is so much value in supporting kids with programming, no matter what language is used
A4 I have many ELL Ss. Text is harder for them. Need more support.
We say the only con is having to spell correctly but if you start w/text might it discourage some Ss?
A4: I do not think text based language is for everyone as it is unforgiving and it frustrates Ss who have never been intro to coding
much of the success of our CompSci Ss falls on our delivery of the material. We must be engaged! Make the blocks matter
Planning makes a huge difference in learning! We have to teach design/planning discipline even when using blocks.
Lots of formative info via S's presentations & writing about coding ala
Yes I agree. For some of my new EL Ss, I switch Scratch to their language, and they can be successful. Not possible with text
Oh me either but with this I can think Ss got a concept to find out later they really didn't.
Always sad to see Ss with expectations of creating their own Minecraft quality game realize they aren't even close...
Over 80% each period is ELL for me also. https://t.co/CxIMsqUFcm
A4 I have many ELL Ss. Text is harder for them. Need more support.
Unforgiving is a great word for it. Attention to detail is crucial, but sometimes tough to harness in middle school!
I do like having Ss code the same thing in multiple environments - even if both are block-based.
A4: bonus powers in text-based: nicer data structures. Better file I/O. More sharing of various online libraries.
A4 : disadvantage, in my experience, block coding removes the kind of errors students need to work through.
Planning should be part of any CS curriculum - even though my Ss want to skip it. :)
Possibly, but you can always recognize their discouragement and show them another tool (block-based)
. Graphics are pretty easy for a text language with Small Basic Logo graphics are supported by it
lol! The first comment in all of my 9th grade CS classes was "I'm going to build Call of Duty for my final project!"
Some of my 3rd grd Ss are choosing to projects for perimeter and poetry (not together lol)
Yes! Ss creativity often exceeds their coding skills at this age.Have to gently re-direct& not give them code -not easy.
I start with Kindergarten Ss so language is a big barrier. :)
How do you encourage (or ensure) that Ss plan ahead of time?
Will that work with the Microsoft version of Minecraft?
hahaha, so sad, but it's also fun to see them proudly present their final project, even if it isn't Call of Duty.
So amazing that you start with that age, Vicky! That makes sense about the spelling barrier
Yes I agree. Ss do not want to write pseudo code or plan at this age - just jump into coding!
Yes but please note, moving forward this program will be incompatible with .
Wait a minute, who let this guy in here?
heard of it but never used it. teaches Minecraft Modding in summer camps w/Java Programming to MS&HS students
Hi Bryan, just noticed you were there! You will soon have lot of data on this subject
I don't focus on planning until a culminating task. Hard to plan when still learning
I make them. LOL They can't code until they show me a plan.
I’m trying to balance and
Definitely. Once they are hooked, I love that they are using text. But can use block too.
Q5 - last question coming up from Vicky...
It's not one or the other exclusively.
Ha! Sometimes I multitask in meetings. :)
Students don't want to plan in high school either. Just saying
Unfortunate choices Msoft have made about future of Minecraft ending compatibility with past.
A4: I see text-based as a barrier for some teachers, however.
Q5: Other thoughts/questions on teaching coding using different types of languages? What do you want to try teaching next & why?
I am more interested in teaching Planning and Debugging than I am in teaching "coding" per se.
Love it. This is perfect!
A balance is always nice.
In case you missed it! https://t.co/Ph9EKZIndA
Q5: Other thoughts/questions on teaching coding using different types of languages? What do you want to try teaching next & why?
Don't worry. We'll fix that for you in the lower grades. Just wait!
So interesting how we approach it differently!
This is such an important point as thousands more teachers begin teaching in the next few years.
A5 Appreciation of, and ability to implement good design external and internal
Thank you! I am so sad to miss most of this, but I'm excited to review!
A5 More with - Ss are motivated to learn with the Legos and it would be fun to create missions for them to work on.
A5 I am looking into App Inventors. Students asking to create apps.
A5 More robots & coding. Getting Ss mobile & learning. just arrived. Want Lego Wedo 2.0. More More time w Ss
A5 Excited to have been invited to attend at the end of April. Looking forward to learning along side
A5: I was thinking about App Inventor, so Ss could see their work on a tablet or phone- making it real
We can write it into the standards lol!
we've done that but believe python better choice. 4th gr just want to play MC, not ready for java
No, I think they needed to inject a new source of revenue flow 4 their $2.5 billion dollar purchase price.
A5 want to teach xamarin so ss can use c# and code for Windows, ios And Android!
A5: I am working on improving the UDL portion of the teacher training I'll be doing.
