Calgary teachers learn how to bring code into their classrooms

Nearly 100 teachers filled desks at the University of Calgary on Saturday, eager to learn how they can bring code into their classrooms.

"We really try to emphasize that it's less about using computers, and more about exploring what learning to code can teach us," said Erika Kehler, lead instructor withKids Code JeunesseB.C.

"Computational thinking teaches us so much about problem solving, and building the core competencies of creativity and collaboration and ultimately enriching the learning experience."

The free, full-day Code Create Teach workshop was funded by the federal government's CanCode program, and hosted byKids Code Jeunesse, a digital education non-profit, andLighthouse Labs, a coding bootcamp.

Kindergarten to Grade 12 teachers learned computational thinking, coding concepts with the visual-programming platform Scratch, text-based coding with Javascriptand an introduction to coding with micro:bit, a mini PC.

The workshop was one of six held so far across Canada, giving atotal of 2,000 teachers the chance to learn how to integrate coding into their lesson plans.

Jeremy Shaki, founder of Lighthouse Labs, said technology is so deeply woven into people's day-to-day lives thatit's vital teachers instill the value of digital literacy into their students.

"Most importantly teachers walk away realizing code can be fun, it's not intimidating atall, and it can integrate into classrooms in ways that are easy for teachers to do without having to know a bunch of code themselves," Shaki said.

The organization plans to hold additional workshops across the country before the end of 2018.

• MORE ALBERTA NEWS |88-year-old hopes Canmore buys his 'little hidden jewel' for urban park
• MORE ALBERTA NEWS |More travellers are visiting Calgary for fun, says tourism bureau