The principles of computer science do not have to be taught in a standalone class. In Connected Code: Why Children Need to Learn Programming, the authors state that engaging in computational thinking, a critical thinking skill often associated with computer science (CS), helps learners understand problems of other disciplines and provides a lens through which they generate ideas and solutions. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that “overall employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow 15 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations,” with a median wage that is more than double that of all occupations. With many occupations and life skills becoming increasingly reliant on technology, understanding CS principles and practicing computational thinking is critical to students’ future success.
Computer Science Education Week (CSEdWeek) is an annual event where educators, students, and caregivers can learn about and celebrate the fun and benefits of computer science. From December 5-11, help inspire interest in your learners by introducing a few Computer Science (CS) concepts, ideas, or activities. Official Computer Science Education Week events from CSEdWeek.org include:
According to The CS Teacher Landscape report, 35% of teachers surveyed indicated they didn’t have the materials, supplies, equipment, or space necessary to properly teach CS. INFOhio has a range of instructional materials that can help you celebrate CSEdWeek with all learners in a variety of settings. Below is a small selection of that content, categorized by grade level, which includes lesson plans, eBooks containing thousands of ideas for classroom and home activities, reference articles great for student research, and professional learning resources. This list is meant to be a snapshot of what’s available as of November 2022 and is by no means exhaustive.
Do you introduce activities or lessons in your classroom as part of #CSEdWeek? Consider sharing your ideas on the INFOhio Community discussion board in Open Space!
If you’re interested in advocating for CS and are looking for additional data and guides, be sure to read the 2022 State of CS Education report, CS Equity Guide, The CS Teacher Landscape report, and visit the Expanding Computing Education Pathways (ECEP) Alliance.
For help and assistance with any of the above resources and tools, reach out to us at support.infohio.org.
Matt Yauk is a Senior Instructional Specialist with INFOhio. He is a certified educator who has worked as a Business and Technology teacher in the middle and high school settings and as an educational technologist, instructional designer, and academic technology director for The Ohio State University (OSU). He has a B.S. in Education: Technical Education and Training from OSU, a M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction: Instructional Design and Technology from University of Cincinnati, founded the Learner Engagement Division within the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT), and co-authored a chapter in the Handbook of Distance Education (4th edition) called "Trends and Directions in Continuing Professional Development." The positive impact on student learning and educator development has always been his primary focus.
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