A couple of weekends ago at a Code.org Workshop, the clear message was of the importance of promoting an awareness of computer science to students of all ages, the high demand for computer programming in the world, the need for it to be offered as courses in our schools, but the one that caught my attention... was the underrepresentation of girls and students of color who actually pursue an education and career in the areas of math, science and technology- (still today!).
The Hour of Code is that initial step to bring this awareness to everyone: students, teachers, administrators, parents, and the community. Now.. it's time to go beyond the hour. At the Code.org Workshop, Kelly Powers, copresident of the Computer Science Teachers Association of Greater Boston shared many opportunities that just couldn't be passed up, like the Technovation Global Challenge specifically geared for girls. MS/HS girls are challenged to blend human needs with technology in developing an app to solve a real problem in their community.
My thoughts...we have to get a Medfield Team together!
The Technovation Challenge is a somewhat rigorous one as you need to get a team of 5 girls together, find/work with a mentor who is a women in the field, identify a social issue, develop the app and a business plan and then pitch it! This is done all within a 12 Week timeframe which means the commitment is an estimated 4 hours a week. Whew!
Watch the video of last year's participants as they share the rewards it brings!
Blake MS will be holding a brief informational meeting after school on Wednesday, Jan. 7th 2:15-2:45ish in the LMC. If you have any questions or interest, please contact Ms. Allen, Mrs. Heim, Mrs. Buley or Ms. Horvath!
The official start week is Jan. 12th- Wish us Luck!
For more data & info on the need for coding, visit:
SO WE'RE IN! ARE YOU?!!
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