Monday, August 26, 2024

How California is Better Educating Computer Science Teaching

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis

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How can teachers without a computer science background effectively teach the subject? What does effective Computer Science professional development look like? Today, Omar Shepherd from California shares how they are seeking to train teachers in California with the Seasons of CS program to do just that. Computer Science can be integrated into any subject. Furthermore, Computer Science for everyone is a strategic issue for states and countries.

Omar shares the importance of Computer Science and how California computer science teachers like him are  working to reach more teachers with the knowledge they need to integrate computer science.

computer science education

YouTube Video

This week's guest

Omar serves as a Project Specialist in Digital Learning and Computer Science Education with the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools. Omar has a passion for Computer Science and advocates for CS for All learners through engaging districts, schools, and teachers in professional learning. One exciting project Omar is passionate about is the statewide work through the Educator Workforce Investment Grant, Seasons of CS. Through the Seasons of CS, Omar collaborates with the County Office of Education Computer Science Champions to provide professional learning to educators K-12. Through onboarding and intensive workshops, we're working to build capacity across the state of California for educators to integrate computer science education in their classrooms. To learn more about this exciting project, or to sign up to attend one of the professional learning offerings, visit our website at seasonsofcs.org

Blog: https://www.seasonsofcs.org/

Twitter: @DoctorSTEM

📝 Key Takeaways

  • Computer Science as an Equity Issue: Computer Science (CS) education is not just for future programmers but is crucial for all students to ensure equitable access to the opportunities created by technology. The lack of diversity in CS, particularly among females and underrepresented groups, is a significant issue that needs addressing to prevent algorithmic bias and ensure diverse perspectives in tech development.

  • Intersectionality of Computing: Computing skills are now fundamental across various industries, from law to medicine to education. All students should be exposed to CS education to prepare them for the future, regardless of their career paths.

  • Importance of Computational Thinking: Computational thinking is essential for all educators, from kindergarten to higher education. As AI becomes more integrated into education, understanding and teaching the basics of algorithms and programming is critical for preparing students for the future.

  • Demystifying AI in Education: AI should not be seen as magic but as a tool grounded in machine learning. Educators need to understand AI's role in education and how it can be used effectively, while also being aware of the equity issues it may bring.

  • Seasons of CS Initiative: The Seasons of CS is a grant-funded initiative in California aimed at providing professional development for K-12 educators in computer science. The program offers year-round training opportunities, culminating in the flagship “CSPD Week” in Anaheim, to prepare educators for potential future CS education requirements in the state.

  • Strategic Focus on CS in California: California is placing a strategic emphasis on CS education, recognizing its role in wealth and job creation. The state’s initiatives, like the Seasons of CS, aim to ensure that all educators are equipped to teach CS, preparing students for a rapidly changing technological landscape.

  • Practical Application of CS in Education: Teachers are encouraged to integrate CS into their classrooms, regardless of the subject they teach, to foster critical thinking, digital literacy, and prepare students for the future.

📝 Where are the transcripts? Apple Podcasts now creates automated AI transcripts that are better than those I can make with my tools. I recommend listening to Apple Podcasts and using their transcript feature if you want the transcript.

Now, you can touch and hold a podcast episode to reveal an option to view a transcript. We are not responsible for typos or misspellings in AI-generated transcripts.

Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored podcast episode.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via a cash payment, gift, or something else of value to include a reference to their product. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I believe will be good for my readers and are from companies I can recommend. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The post How California is Better Educating Computer Science Teaching appeared first on Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis @coolcatteacher helping educators be excellent every day. Meow!


from Cool Cat Teacher Blog
https://www.coolcatteacher.com/how-california-computer-science-teaching-professional-development/

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