A select group of students at Dishman Elementary celebrated Computer Science Education Week (December 8-14) by participating in an Hour of Code, an international campaign to introduce code to students and show that anyone can learn the basics.
Hosted by Sylvan Learning, the after school program was held in two sessions and familiarized students with the basics of code used to create video games and apps.
“This program involves higher order thinking skills, so we’re very excited about it,” said Mariana Delgado Instructional Facilitator at Dishman.
Fourth and fifth grade students learned about coding through code.org, a non-profit organization dedicated to expanding participation in computer science by making it available in more schools.
Using Legos, second and third grade students learned about robotics. They built a computer-controlled bird by following instructions and working as a team. Students learned that through the use of simple programming they could make the bird flap its wings at different speeds, and have it produce different noises.
“This activity challenges students to communicate effectively, and think outside of the box,” said Jessica Galloso, Director of Sales and Marketing at Sylvan Learning. “We hope to spark an interest for STEM (Science Technology Engineering Mathematics) with these students and inspire a love for coding.”
Sylvan will also be working with other Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District schools to provide STEM-related activities to their students.
