Welcoming Computer Science Education Week 2015 and the Hour of Code

| MSNE Staff

YouTube Video

We believe that every student in every school should have the opportunity to learn computer science. As our world becomes more enveloped in technology, there’s no doubt that STEM education is a necessity for all. As it stands, only 27 states currently have set standards including computer science in graduation requirements — and Massachusetts is not one of them. That’s why Computer Science Education Week (December 7 — 13) is so important to us. We want to help bring technology to the forefront of education, and that starts with one simple lesson.

MA-CSEdWeek-Stats

This year, we’re joining MassTLC in the goal of bringing computer science (and the Hour of Code) to every one of the 57,000 students in the Boston Public Schools system, as well as thousands of students in Somerville Public Schools and Cambridge Public Schools. With Hour of Code workshops and Computer Science events held at the Microsoft Store, Somerville Public Schools, and the Museum of Science, we’re aiming to make this the biggest CSEdWeek yet.

So how can we help in making CSEdWeek a priority? Through participating in the Hour of Code, supporting local legislation to promote computer science education in all schools, and by learning computer science ourselves.

Events To Watch Out For:

  • December 7 — 13: Host Your Own Hour of Code
    You can download the Microsoft Event Toolkit to receive a free facilitator guide, quick tip sheet, PowerPoint slides, and brief orientation video. You can also join a free Preparation Webinar with live chat for questions and answers. Download your Toolkit today, and get ready to lead your own Hour of Code! 
  • December 7: Hour of Code Workshop with Minecraft at Microsoft Store
    Join us for this free, 90-minute workshop to explore a Minecraft world through code and to take part in the global Hour of Code movement during Computer Science Education Week. Use blocks of code to take Steve or Alex on an adventure through a Minecraft world. You’ll use kid-friendly programming to learn how creativity and problem solving come together to make something all your own. Curriculum designed for ages 8 and older.
    Register today as workshops fill up quickly.
    The parent, legal guardian or authorized adult caregiver of every camp participant must remain in the Microsoft store for the duration of the event. 
  • December 8: Hour of Code Workshop with Minecraft at Microsoft Store
    Join us for this free, 90-minute workshop to explore a Minecraft world through code and to take part in the global Hour of Code movement during Computer Science Education Week. Use blocks of code to take Steve or Alex on an adventure through a Minecraft world. You’ll use kid-friendly programming to learn how creativity and problem solving come together to make something all your own. Curriculum designed for ages 8 and older.
    Register today as workshops fill up quickly.
    The parent, legal guardian or authorized adult caregiver of every camp participant must remain in the Microsoft store for the duration of the event. 
  • December 9: Hour of Code Workshop with Minecraft at Microsoft Store
    Join us for this free, 90-minute workshop to explore a Minecraft world through code and to take part in the global Hour of Code movement during Computer Science Education Week. Use blocks of code to take Steve or Alex on an adventure through a Minecraft world. You’ll use kid-friendly programming to learn how creativity and problem solving come together to make something all your own. Curriculum designed for ages 8 and older.
    Register today as workshops fill up quickly.
    The parent, legal guardian or authorized adult caregiver of every camp participant must remain in the Microsoft store for the duration of the event. 
  • December 9: Education Re-Imagined: Online Learning & STEM
    Learn about the value of MOOCs from an online learning pioneer and thought-leader, and find out how these resources can expand your personal knowledge and the potential of your classroom. High school students are welcome to attend with their teachers.

  • December 10: Hour of Code Workshop with Minecraft at Microsoft Store
    Join us for this free, 90-minute workshop to explore a Minecraft world through code and to take part in the global Hour of Code movement during Computer Science Education Week. Use blocks of code to take Steve or Alex on an adventure through a Minecraft world. You’ll use kid-friendly programming to learn how creativity and problem solving come together to make something all your own. Curriculum designed for ages 8 and older.
    Register today as workshops fill up quickly.
    The parent, legal guardian or authorized adult caregiver of every camp participant must remain in the Microsoft store for the duration of the event.

  • December 11: Hour of Code Workshop with Minecraft at Microsoft Store
    Join us for this free, 90-minute workshop to explore a Minecraft world through code and to take part in the global Hour of Code movement during Computer Science Education Week. Use blocks of code to take Steve or Alex on an adventure through a Minecraft world. You’ll use kid-friendly programming to learn how creativity and problem solving come together to make something all your own. Curriculum designed for ages 8 and older.
    Register today as workshops fill up quickly.
    The parent, legal guardian or authorized adult caregiver of every camp participant must remain in the Microsoft store for the duration of the event. 
  • December 12: Hour of Code Workshop with Minecraft at Microsoft Store
    Join us for this free, 90-minute workshop to explore a Minecraft world through code and to take part in the global Hour of Code movement during Computer Science Education Week. Use blocks of code to take Steve or Alex on an adventure through a Minecraft world. You’ll use kid-friendly programming to learn how creativity and problem solving come together to make something all your own. Curriculum designed for ages 8 and older.
    Register today as workshops fill up quickly.
    The parent, legal guardian or authorized adult caregiver of every camp participant must remain in the Microsoft store for the duration of the event.

Want to help out? There’s still time to register as a volunteer with MassTLC!

Looking for more coding opportunities? Find more coding tools and resources for students, parents, and educators at microsoft.com/hourofcode.

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