Thursday, April 26, 2018

Computer Science K-12: Imagining the possibilities!

My friend Doug Bergman has a new book out called Computer Science K-12: Imagining the possibilities!

I reviewed drafts of the book while it was being written and I can tell you there is a lot of good stuff in it.


Doug BookFor teachers new to Computer Science who have been charged with starting a new class at your school, and just don't know where to start. I'll walk you through what you need to be considering such as which technologies, what type of curriculum, student recruitment, professional development, connecting with other CS teachers, and pedagogy.


For school leaders, board members, and decision makers who need to know what Computer Science really is, what it looks like in the real world, and what it can look like in education-- this book will guide you through many of those early questions as you consider if, how, and where Computer Science fits in your schools: What are the attributes of successful CS teachers? Where can I hire teachers? Do I need "experts" in CS? How do I evaluate a project-based class? Standards? Training for new teachers? What successful programs can I look at for ideas?


For those experienced CS teachers who are just not seeing the energy and engagement in your classes, this book will be a wealth of innovative ideas and strategies to help you engage differently with your students.
Technology today is interactive, engaging, and dynamic; Computer Science classes should have that same feel. You'll see how to create a student-centered classroom where students lead their own learning.

1 comment:

Garth said...

Thanks! I just ordered one. I am curious on what I will agree with and maybe disagree with. I found out last weekend I may be writing a methods course for K-12 for Univ of Montana. This might be useful.