Due to my highly hyperactive nature, I am always more interested in making something than talking about it. I knew that I wanted to build a supportive website for my prototype, and had even begun basic beginning work on it. I had a semi-clear idea of what I wanted it to be in my head.
I used Bubble.us to clarify my plan and it was really helpful. I have a predictable pattern of getting an idea and just jumping in, and recognizing that some planning would have made it better, later. I was already headed down this path before class last week, and am thankful for the assignment because it caused me to really map out what I want to accomplish. My prototype is going to be a website that will be a support for teacher, students and parents who want to learn computer science. There are plenty of fantastic places out there that teach coding (Khan Academy being my personal favorite), but I really wanted to create a site that encourages teachers to promote coding over code games, and provide both encouragement and support along the journey. I also wanted to build something that was an all-in-one: where not only teachers could get the support they need, but they could also use to direct both students and parents to get started on their journey. It was in the process of designing this website that I began to think about parents as learners, too. I initially was really focused on students, but then recognized that their parents might also want to pursue learning code. I want to create a branch of the website that supports their learning journey without treating them like "kids". I am focused on supporting them while keeping in mind that unlike my young students, they are adults pursuing a new skill. I also love that most coding website provide instruction in multiple languages which will give parents the freedom to learn in the language in which they feel most comfortable. I really think a great add-on to this would be to host code nights where parents can receive support and instruction. My ultimate goal is empowerment and agency for all learners, whether they are the educator, the students, or the parents. I love the idea that developing your technical skills can empower you to make different career choices, or even just support your overall personal sense of worth as you tackle something difficult. I suppose if time were limitless and my hours infinite, I would host weekly classes - one day for students who are highly motivated to pursue more, and one for parents also motivated or just needing encouragement. I would love to see these classes all over the place, but particularly in areas where people are fighting to overcome generational poverty. A website will have to do for now.
6 Comments
Nai Saelee
7/10/2017 02:47:01 pm
Jen,
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Nancy
7/10/2017 07:39:08 pm
Jen,
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7/11/2017 12:38:22 pm
Reading you blog and your comments has aided in enriching my Capstone project too. I'm having parents sign a permission slip for videos and digital blogs, weebly etc. But I haven't asked for any other interaction then that. I'm think parents could also critique their students work to have a better understanding of what their child is learning in the fine arts. Thanks for keeping the focus clear.
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Patrick
7/12/2017 08:17:37 pm
Although our content and methods are ultimately different, as you focus on coding and I focus on math achievement, our end goal is the same: promoting agency.
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Dan
7/13/2017 09:14:30 am
Jen,
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James
7/24/2017 06:24:29 pm
Jen,
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AuthorJen has been teaching school for awhile now. She's learned some stuff, but she's got tons more to learn. Archives
October 2017
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