#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 March 21, 2018
8:00 PM EDT

  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:00 PM EDT
    Welcome to tonight’s #csk8 chat about Common Misconceptions in K-8 Computer Science.
  • Todd_Lash - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:00 PM EDT
    Tonight’s moderators are @visionsbyvicky @Todd_Lash & @Sheena101 #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:00 PM EDT
    Join on Twitter OR try https://t.co/QQKbV3pwo2 where the hashtag is automatically added. #csk8
  • Todd_Lash - Moderator Mar 21 @ 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 Mar 21 @ 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.
  • Todd_Lash - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:01 PM EDT
    Before we get started with questions, please introduce yourself: Name, Location, Connection to CS education for 5-14 year olds. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:04 PM EDT
    Good evening #csk8 chat I'm Vicky, a K-8 Technology Teacher, from the Los Angeles area.
  • CLBort Mar 21 @ 8:04 PM EDT
    Cheri from Bellevue WA- I have a 5 YO who loves to code & I am a K-5 CS implementation leader #csk8
  • bquentin3 Mar 21 @ 8:04 PM EDT
    Bradley, pre-k through 5th grade STEM lab teacher in Houston. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:05 PM EDT
    Hey, Cheri. Glad you could join us tonight. What's your 5 year old coded recently? #csk8
    In reply to @CLBort
  • Todd_Lash - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:05 PM EDT
    Hi all! Todd here from Illinois. Researching CSed and students with disabilities/struggling learners, #UDL and CS/math integration. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:05 PM EDT
    Welcome, Bradley. How's the weather in Houston Raining in Los Angeles today. #csk8
    In reply to @bquentin3
  • Sheena1010 - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:06 PM EDT
    Hi! I am Sheena - teaching CS in California for 8+ years #csk8
  • Todd_Lash - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:06 PM EDT
    Hi Cheri! I've loved all your tweets with your 5 YO and her books :) #csk8
    In reply to @CLBort
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:07 PM EDT
    Coming up in 1 minute - the first question of tonight's Common Misconceptions in K-8 Computer Science #csk8 chat. Be watching for it!
  • bquentin3 Mar 21 @ 8:07 PM EDT
    #csk8 Wonderful, ecept for the tree pollen which is suffocating us all.
    In reply to @VisionsByVicky
  • aprilpc Mar 21 @ 8:07 PM EDT
    April Chamberlain, Technology Coordinator in Trussville, AL #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:08 PM EDT
    Q1: What misunderstandings or misconceptions do students (& teachers) have about computer science, its role in their lives, its value to them, and who can be a computer scientist? #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:08 PM EDT
    Welcome, April! Thanks for joining us. #csk8
    In reply to @aprilpc
  • Todd_Lash - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:08 PM EDT
    Hi April! Glad you could join us tonight. You have a lot going on in AL with #CSed! #csk8
    In reply to @aprilpc
  • aprilpc Mar 21 @ 8:14 PM EDT
    Yes! So excited that the Digital Literacy and Computer Science standards were passed recently by the ALABAMA BOE. #CSk8
  • Sheena1010 - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:14 PM EDT
    A1: Many Ss think only certain type of students can do CS - it is not for all. They do think it is valuable, and worry if they will be the lucky ones who can do it #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:14 PM EDT
    A1: I have heard from students that they don't need to know about CS because they're just not "techie". #csk8
  • Todd_Lash - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:14 PM EDT
    Many teachers see CS as just "coding" due to the way things have rolled out over the last few years and no fault of their own. As far as students, multiple studies have shown that many kids still equate computer scientists with white males. #csk8
  • bquentin3 Mar 21 @ 8:15 PM EDT
    Some students (older ones especially) think that CS is for certain people, but not others. With teachers, many think of CS as a nice add-on but not something that can enhance instruction in the core subjects. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:15 PM EDT
    We need to make sure that all students see it as something for everyone. #csk8
    In reply to @Sheena1010
  • CSwhitekh Mar 21 @ 8:15 PM EDT
    coding is not a social event. There is only one right way (beginners). Broadcast is only to one. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:16 PM EDT
    Q2: It is not uncommon to hear that elementary or middle school students are too young to learn computer science. What might we do to dispel this misconception? #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:16 PM EDT
    Yep, I have seen teachers do a "draw a computer scientist with students" and get overwhelmingly white males. #csk8
    In reply to @Todd_Lash
  • Sheena1010 - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:17 PM EDT
    Yes and since they think it is all about being good at coding, their success/failure in a coding project can make this worse! We need to start with explaining that CS is much more than coding! #csk8
    In reply to @VisionsByVicky
  • aprilpc Mar 21 @ 8:17 PM EDT
    This is what we are hearing too. With the new standards in our state, working to develop implementation plan that shows cross-curriculuar. #csk8
    • bquentin3 Mar 21 @ 8:15 PM EDT
      Some students (older ones especially) think that CS is for certain people, but not others. With teachers, many think of CS as a nice add-on but not something that can enhance instruction in the core subjects. #csk8
  • Todd_Lash - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:17 PM EDT
    The "lucky ones" part of your tweet reminds me of how many feel that society is divided between math and non-math folks. Are you saying it is the same for CS? #csk8
    In reply to @Sheena1010
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:17 PM EDT
    Absolutely! #csk8
    • Sheena1010 - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:17 PM EDT
      Yes and since they think it is all about being good at coding, their success/failure in a coding project can make this worse! We need to start with explaining that CS is much more than coding! #csk8
      In reply to @VisionsByVicky
  • CLBort Mar 21 @ 8:17 PM EDT
    Interviewing Ts the last 2 days. 1 teacher candidate out of 10 knew how to answer the ? about CT/CS. Long way to go in teacher prep programs. Most said they use iPads and laptops as their answer. #csk8
  • CSwhitekh Mar 21 @ 8:18 PM EDT
    A2: I'm finding that HS and MS and administration is beginning to realize that kids have already opted out of CS and that we need to get them interested and excited earlier in order to fill the cs courses they are creating. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:18 PM EDT
    I feel that especially in K-5, it needs to be cross curricular. #csk8
    In reply to @aprilpc
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:19 PM EDT
    Yes, we need to get teacher prep programs to address this. #csk8
    In reply to @CLBort
  • Sheena1010 - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:19 PM EDT
    A1: Teachers think they can not learn CS - and they will never be really good at coding and so can not teach CS. We need to change that by giving them the same support we give our Ss and show that they can succeed #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:19 PM EDT
    This makes me hopeful because if there's pressure from HS & MS, maybe districts will see the need in elementary. #csk8
    In reply to @CSwhitekh
  • bquentin3 Mar 21 @ 8:19 PM EDT
    A2 I make a point of inviting teachers, other classes, and administrators to the lab to see the projects (not always CS) that Ss have created. They are always amazed at what the Ss are able to do. #csk8
  • CLBort Mar 21 @ 8:20 PM EDT
    A2: in talking w/ MS/HS Ts they are usually always surprised about elem kids learning CS and often need convincing that CS is elementary! #csk8
  • aprilpc Mar 21 @ 8:20 PM EDT
    A2: We have to show teachers, parents, administrators, and the community that young students can develop computer science skills. Tell the story frequently with images in many places. #CSk8
  • Todd_Lash - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:20 PM EDT
    A2: Mostly it is adults who think that elem or MS students are too young for CS. The kids themselves are excited about it as long as we treat it like other subjects in the sense that we differentiate and makes sure kids have the supports they need to be successful. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:21 PM EDT
    A2: Showing administrators and teachers what students CAN do with CS even in the primary grades is a great place to start. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:22 PM EDT
    Agreed, the students don't know that they're supposed to be too young to do it. #csk8
    In reply to @Todd_Lash
  • Sheena1010 - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:22 PM EDT
    Agree - showing administrators what Ss can do as well as sharing Ss projects with other teachers at PD / conferences is a good way to demonstrate that younger kids can learn CS #csk8
    In reply to @bquentin3
  • Todd_Lash - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:23 PM EDT
    Yes, this is backed up by Google's research it did last year on the number of parents who wanted their kids to have CSed and the number who actually did. #csk8
    In reply to @CSwhitekh
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:23 PM EDT
    I often wonder what HS CS will look like 5-10 years from now when CS is being taught in (hopefully) all elementary & middle schools. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:24 PM EDT
    Q3: What can we do to change the misconception that you must be good in math in order to be good at computer science? #csk8
  • jmiles61 Mar 21 @ 8:24 PM EDT
    Hi, just got on twitter. #csk8
  • cbrossi2009 Mar 21 @ 8:24 PM EDT
    #csk8 #csinsf learning new Scratch lessons to teach our kids! Lots of fun!
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:24 PM EDT
    Welcome, we're on Q3 - watch for retweet. #csk8
    In reply to @jmiles61
  • Sheena1010 - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:25 PM EDT
    Yes! and younger students have no fear - they are not afraid to try something new and when they find they can fail and try again - and make something personally relevant, it is fun! It is actually easier to teach the younger kids in some ways #csk8
    In reply to @VisionsByVicky, @Todd_Lash
  • bquentin3 Mar 21 @ 8:26 PM EDT
    A2 #csk8 What I love about teaching elementary is that I get the chance to combat these notions about who is and is not good at CS early!
    In reply to @Todd_Lash
  • CSwhitekh Mar 21 @ 8:26 PM EDT
    A3: I was a 7th grade math teacher and saddened to see kids had already formed opinions that they were not good at math. After teaching CS - it is obvious to me that the persistence they learn from coding will help them accept and learn in math #csk8
  • jmiles61 Mar 21 @ 8:26 PM EDT
    A3 Get the students in the door first and then they will see and find out. I tell them it is all about problem solving. #csk8
  • RobertsKasey Mar 21 @ 8:26 PM EDT
    Hi Todd! My integrating technology class at Iowa State University agrees with you. As long as teachers are engaged and motivated about what they are teaching, students will be excited about their learning and motivated too! #csk8
    In reply to @Todd_Lash
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:26 PM EDT
    We need some research on this. #csk8
    In reply to @CSwhitekh
  • CLBort Mar 21 @ 8:27 PM EDT
    Q3- make sure CS projects have a lot of creative facets available, also multiple entry points and opportunities for indiv student ideas to come forward. #csk8
  • Todd_Lash - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:27 PM EDT
    A3: It is interesting that we now have "math mindset" that is based on "growth mindset" that really looks a lot like what we do in CS as a part of testing and iterative refinement :) #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:27 PM EDT
    Is getting them in the door difficult in your school? #csk8
    In reply to @jmiles61
  • bquentin3 Mar 21 @ 8:28 PM EDT
    A3 The units I plan for my Ss in the lab always have several cross-curricular connections. ELA, art, drama, history, etc. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:29 PM EDT
    Do you have any examples? I'm always looking for new ideas. #csk8
    In reply to @bquentin3
  • Sheena1010 - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:29 PM EDT
    A3: It is difficult to change that misconception by just telling them directly - but we can show by real examples. If CS is a required class - everyone has access. Often the kid not doing well in math actually finds this interesting and will work hard and be very good. #csk8
  • jmiles61 Mar 21 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    No. I have a waiting list. I can only offer 3 sections. #csk8
    In reply to @VisionsByVicky
  • BTwarek Mar 21 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    Tonight’s #CSinSF elementary PLC topics: connecting @makeymakey to @scratch microworld projects! Plus, @ScratchJr block manipulatives for unplugged activities and assessment! @SFUnified #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:30 PM EDT
    A3: Shhh, they don't know they're doing math when they're coding. :) #csk8
  • aprilpc Mar 21 @ 8:31 PM EDT
    A3: I believe students have to have many opportunities to develop computational thinking not just in the math classroom and celebrate their successes to move beyond "math is hard or not for me". #csk8
  • Brarian Mar 21 @ 8:31 PM EDT
    A3 #csk8 Informal learning permits learners to "fail" safely. Girls begin to self-select out of CS early. We can partner w/library labs.
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:32 PM EDT
    Q4: As computing becomes more ubiquitous and abstracted (e.g., voice activated assistants, IOT, self-driving cars), how can we help students (and teachers) overcome the misconception that computing devices just magically do things? #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:32 PM EDT
    Yes, if it's required, then we can give them all access and they can learn this themselves. Now, how do we get all schools to require it? #csk8
    In reply to @Sheena1010
  • Todd_Lash - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:32 PM EDT
    Multiple means of expression, engagement and representation :) #UDL #csk8
    • CLBort Mar 21 @ 8:27 PM EDT
      Q3- make sure CS projects have a lot of creative facets available, also multiple entry points and opportunities for indiv student ideas to come forward. #csk8
  • Sheena1010 - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:32 PM EDT
    A3: Unfortunately others tell Ss doing well in Math - that they will be good at CS and so that misconception is further strengthened. CS can actually help with Math - have seen so many Ss finally understand coordinates/angles/variables after coding #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:33 PM EDT
    Yes, many girls do, unfortunately. We need to provide the types of classes that will attract girls. #csk8
    In reply to @Brarian
  • Todd_Lash - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:34 PM EDT
    Hey there stranger! Thanks for joining in! You are so on target with self-selection. Creating new spaces and opportunities such as in libraries is paramount! #csk8
    In reply to @Brarian
  • jmiles61 Mar 21 @ 8:35 PM EDT
    A4 That is still why I like to take apart nonworking computers so the students see what it takes to make it work. I also like @microbit_edu even though I only have one) to show them how a processor works. #csk8
  • mrbombmusic Mar 21 @ 8:35 PM EDT
    Jumping in late here. Middle School Music teacher who has been increasingly finding ways to incorporate coding and physical computing into my curriculum #csk8
  • aprilpc Mar 21 @ 8:35 PM EDT
    A4: For students to understand that computing devices are not "magical", we have to help them develop their questioning skills so they ask "why and how does this benefit others?" and find answers to those questions. #csk8
  • CLBort Mar 21 @ 8:36 PM EDT
    Q4- I find it is important to have young students take apart devices, machines, etc to become curious about how they work. This sets the stage for ongoing curiosity & interest about how things work from a CS perspective. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:36 PM EDT
    You need to get more #microbits ! #csk8
    In reply to @jmiles61, @microbit_edu
  • bquentin3 Mar 21 @ 8:37 PM EDT
    #csk8 raspberry pi animated artwork, microbit pets, scratch drawings
    In reply to @VisionsByVicky
  • mrbombmusic Mar 21 @ 8:37 PM EDT
    A1: I think a lot of kids don't realize the creative possibilities to make art and music that are offered by learning about computer science. I think some believe it is a pretty dry topic that isn't for creative types #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:37 PM EDT
    Agreed, it's just becoming more difficult to convince people that it's not "magic" - think Alexa or self-driving cars. They sure seem like magic. #csk8
    In reply to @aprilpc
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:37 PM EDT
    Yes, and it really is extremely creative! #csk8
    In reply to @mrbombmusic
  • mrskalthoff Mar 21 @ 8:38 PM EDT
    Help make it happen for @STEMtrunk: Educational toy subscription service on @indiegogo https://t.co/fSP3IYiQPH Check it out! It's a way for you to test out things like robots before purchasing them or just use them for as long as you need! #mncodes #csforall #kidscancode #csk8
  • Sheena1010 - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:38 PM EDT
    A4: We have to show Ss how they can do this magic with code. Getting a motor to turn, a LED to light up for example helps them see how these devices might work - a small step in understanding what is around them #csk8
  • Todd_Lash - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:38 PM EDT
    A4: I do/used to do this as well, but computing devices have so abstracted the "computing" from the user as of late and will continue to do so. How do we help bridge between an old computer and an Alexa or a Google Home with no tangible user input or physical interface? #csk8
    In reply to @jmiles61, @microbit_edu
  • DuPriestMath Mar 21 @ 8:39 PM EDT
    Hello everyone. Jumping in for the end of this chat. Was just at a meeting to promote elementary CS to our media / tech staff and recruit some leaders for our task force! #csk8
  • mrbombmusic Mar 21 @ 8:39 PM EDT
    A2: I think showcasing what they produce can quickly dispel that misconception. Even the smallest programs can illustrate what students are capable of. Projects that are even slightly complex can be mind blowing for those who thought they couldn't do anything #csk8
  • mrbombmusic Mar 21 @ 8:39 PM EDT
    although often the people who have that misconception have little to no working knowledge of computer science to begin with #csk8
  • BTwarek Mar 21 @ 8:39 PM EDT
    A3: Showcase and celebrate many strengths and ways different students can contribute to the class. If we integrate CS with art and literacy, math matters less. We should work to decouple math and CS because many students already have stereotypes around who succeeds in math. #csk8
    In reply to @VisionsByVicky
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    Q5: How might we dispel the misconception that a school needs to have the newest computers, expensive robots, dedicated CS teachers, etc. in order to teach computer science? #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    Hey, Dawn we're on Q4: As computing becomes more ubiquitous and abstracted (e.g., voice activated assistants, IOT, self-driving cars), how can we help students (and teachers) overcome the misconception that computing devices just magically do things? #csk8
    In reply to @DuPriestMath
  • Todd_Lash - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:40 PM EDT
    Hi Dawn! Glad you could join us! #csk8
    In reply to @DuPriestMath
  • jmiles61 Mar 21 @ 8:41 PM EDT
    Is Alexa and Google Home open source software? If so, we can show the students that. #csk8
    In reply to @Todd_Lash
  • Sheena1010 - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:43 PM EDT
    A5: Showcase all the cool FREE tools you can use for CS - and it runs on inexpensive computers - Scratch, Python, Sonic Pi run on #RaspberryPi - use of a browser on ANY computer with inexpensive #microbit #csk8
  • DuPriestMath Mar 21 @ 8:44 PM EDT
    As far as A4, I don't know the answer but I think about how magical web browsing was in the 90's when I grew up with a computer that didn't even have a modem... it just took time and different modes of experimentation to appreciate it for what it was. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:44 PM EDT
    I believe so or there are ways to program them. Check github #csk8
    In reply to @jmiles61, @Todd_Lash
  • aprilpc Mar 21 @ 8:44 PM EDT
    A5: Develop a group of teachers who are interested in learning and developing CS opportunities for students across content areas who will be leaders in their schools. So many free resources both plugged and unplugged. #csk8
  • CLBort Mar 21 @ 8:44 PM EDT
    Q5- IntroducingTs to Computational Thinking and the cross curricular application of CT. #csk8
  • DuPriestMath Mar 21 @ 8:44 PM EDT
    A5: My husband walked in the room and told me he read about a CS teacher who teaches with NO computers. They diagram everything out. It sounds awful... but if he can make CS work, we have no excuses #csk8
  • mrbombmusic Mar 21 @ 8:44 PM EDT
    A3: I think by showing them an example of something they find interesting like a game and breaking it down into basic concepts like conditional statements, objects/sprites, coordinates on the screen etc These are all tangible concepts with no math required #csk8
  • bquentin3 Mar 21 @ 8:45 PM EDT
    A4 I use #RaspberryPi and physical computing lessons because Ss can see all of the parts and how they are connected, and then they can control them with @scratch #csk8
  • jmiles61 Mar 21 @ 8:45 PM EDT
    A5 Have a lot of lessons created that can be integrated into the core and elective(music) classes. Show how most can be done via the internet or open source software for computers older than windows 7. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:45 PM EDT
    A5: Come visit me - okay I am a dedicated teacher - but I'm in a lab w/13 year old Windows computers w/3GB memory now running Linux. There's LOTS you can still do. #csk8
  • MrsMoorman1 Mar 21 @ 8:46 PM EDT
    A5: We might dispel it by showing/sharing unplugged CS activities with all parties involved #csk8
    In reply to @VisionsByVicky
  • aprilpc Mar 21 @ 8:46 PM EDT
    A5: One elem. school in our district is piloting a schedule for school wide intervention/enrichment at the same time. This has opened opportunities to thinking people and resources. Students select three enrich opportunities during the year. #csk8
  • DuPriestMath Mar 21 @ 8:47 PM EDT
    I did unplugged activities with the media/tech team today and thought it was helpful to them. Emphasize the standards / concepts and not the tools. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:47 PM EDT
    A5: There is so much that can be done to teach CS using unplugged activities. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:48 PM EDT
    Q6: There can be misconceptions about CS based on the demographics of a school community. What can these be & what can we do to help students & school communities get beyond them to achieve #CSforAll? #csk8
  • Brarian Mar 21 @ 8:48 PM EDT
    A4: this 2: "@FastCompany: People asked to name women in tech. said “Alexa” & “Siri"https://t.co/mD09gcCYng https://t.co/P8rGHxvhFu#csk8
    In reply to @FastCompany
  • jmiles61 Mar 21 @ 8:48 PM EDT
    That is how I first learned to program. Using Flow Charts. I still like to use them. #csk8
    In reply to @DuPriestMath
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:48 PM EDT
    I can't imagine NO computers but there's lots you can do with minimal tech if that's all you have. #csk8
    In reply to @DuPriestMath
  • bquentin3 Mar 21 @ 8:49 PM EDT
    A5 While I've cobbled togther a fair collection of CS devices over the last couple years, I started teaching CS while I was a 3rd grade classroom teacher with 6 computers in my room, 3 of which still had a 3.5inch floppy disk slot. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:49 PM EDT
    UGH! #csk8
    In reply to @Brarian, @FastCompany
  • Todd_Lash - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:50 PM EDT
    Q6b: What do folks think about schools that are struggling in other "core" content areas and don't think they can begin #CSed until they are doing better in more traditional subjects? #csk8 What do you say to admin?
  • DuPriestMath Mar 21 @ 8:51 PM EDT
    I know this sounds weird but I've considered naming my elective classes "helping animals" instead of "computer science". So kids sign up that want to solve problems, not just the kids who love computers already #csk8
  • jmiles61 Mar 21 @ 8:52 PM EDT
    A6 At our school, I believe we already have achieved that. At least 25 percent of my students have an active IEP per class. The majority of my students are English Language Learners. #csk8
  • DuPriestMath Mar 21 @ 8:52 PM EDT
    A6b: So I would caution against telling your admin that teaching CS will raise test scores. It's not a valid reason to teach CS and it might not actually be true. But... (1/2) #csk8
  • DuPriestMath Mar 21 @ 8:52 PM EDT
  • Todd_Lash - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:53 PM EDT
    Please do this, take pictures from the first day of class and share :) #csk8
    In reply to @DuPriestMath
  • DuPriestMath Mar 21 @ 8:54 PM EDT
    A6b: (2/2) I think you can make a good case that CS will help your students be creative, learn to solve problems, learn to invent, persevere through difficulty and have FUN. Learning is joyful when it's creative and also challenging #csk8
  • bquentin3 Mar 21 @ 8:54 PM EDT
    A6 Exactly what I was just typing about. Ts say they can't incorporate CS because of pressure to improve other subjects. That's why I invite admin to my lab, to show how CS (digital making, tinkering, etc.) can enhance instruction in core subs. #csk8
    In reply to @Todd_Lash
  • mrbombmusic Mar 21 @ 8:54 PM EDT
    A4: Getting kids to think using computer logic really changes their perspective of the way things work around them. I remember when I first learned about conditional statements. So many things made more sense after that #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:54 PM EDT
    It would be nice if it were true but we don't have research that says so at this point. #csk8
    In reply to @DuPriestMath
  • aprilpc Mar 21 @ 8:54 PM EDT
    A6: I believe many do not understand what computer science is so do not see the value. We have to explain and show them how the skills transfer to so many areas of a student's life now and in future opportunities. #csk8
  • bquentin3 Mar 21 @ 8:55 PM EDT
    #csk8 That's brilliant! Will need to try that for my clubs next year.
    In reply to @DuPriestMath
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:56 PM EDT
    Helping Animals. :) Love it. #csk8
    In reply to @DuPriestMath
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:56 PM EDT
    Q7: Do you have any other misconceptions that we need to dispel about computer science in K-8? #csk8
  • mlmiller Mar 21 @ 8:56 PM EDT
    #csk8 Wish I could have joined today; helping schools meet 3/22 E-Rate deadline. Great topic I am missing here. Mark Miller, ED, https://t.co/LP2bL8AMzE
  • Sheena1010 - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:56 PM EDT
    A6: We have a misconception that since our Ss live in Silicon Valley and may have techie parents - they must be amazing at CS naturally or automatically :) We need to understand & support ALL Ss #csk8
  • mrterborg Mar 21 @ 8:57 PM EDT
    I've kept a few so my younger students can take them apart and reassemble. My goal was to have them format and reinstall everything. #csk8
    In reply to @jmiles61, @microbit_edu
  • Brarian Mar 21 @ 8:58 PM EDT
    A6: low or no tech, but prob solving: cf Follow-Up: Did The Computerless Computer Teacher Ever Get A Computer? https://t.co/XuQBw7C6rL #csk8
  • mrbombmusic Mar 21 @ 8:58 PM EDT
    A5: The creative platforms I use are all free and work on all platforms: Sonic Pi, P5.js, Scratch . The latter two are also web based and don't even require you to download anything. #csk8
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:58 PM EDT
    We missed you. eRate - UGH! #csk8
    In reply to @mlmiller
  • CLBort Mar 21 @ 8:58 PM EDT
    Q6: I bump into CS not being or Ss with differing abilities or ELLs. We are partnering w/ SpEd dept to offer PD for SpEd Ts. Yes, CS is great to teach social skills and communication! #csk8
  • aprilpc Mar 21 @ 8:58 PM EDT
    A7: Not a misconceptions, but through chats and other online or f2f communities support one another as we are all on this journey together to education students, teachers, and the community. #csk8
  • Todd_Lash - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:58 PM EDT
    Sorry Mark. Wish you could have been here instead :) #csk8
    In reply to @mlmiller
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    Thank you for participating in tonight’s #csk8 chat about Common Misconceptions in K-8 Computer Science.
  • Sheena1010 - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    Ha! But I think the use of 'Makerspace' in the name may help some of these elective classes - kids join to make something, and will need to solve problems and perhaps even code to make some of their creations come to life. #csk8
    In reply to @DuPriestMath
  • VisionsByVicky - Moderator Mar 21 @ 8:59 PM EDT
    I am amazed at schools in areas like Silicon Valley that don't teach CS. #csk8
    In reply to @Sheena1010
  • Todd_Lash - Moderator Mar 21 @ 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/F1QRV4tTXi Please continue the conversation there or on Twitter using the #csk8 hashtag