AESD computer science leads hosted another great WINforCS session on Thursday, February 9. Educators from across the state gathered to meet our new OSPI CS program supervisor, build community, and choose their own adventure in breakout sessions. Breakout sessions, themed around engagement, focused on robotics (VEX and Sphero), ChatGPT and AI, and organizations like CodeFellows and Girls Who Code.
VEX Robotics representatives Aimee Defoe and Bradley Lamott gave educators a tour of the integrated computer science activities offered across the curriculum and grade levels, while Sphero representative Shane Yorton introduced the Sphero Bolt (grades 3+) and Indi (Pre-K – 2nd grade) and their related SEL and academic curriculum.
CodeFellows representative Dr. Bernadette Ortiz-Brewster introduced their technical skills-based and equity-focused educational pathways for students interested in software development, cybersecurity and Web3. Clubs and summer programs were the focus of Girls Who Code, represented by Meaghan Flaherty.
Finally, ESD 112’s Katherine Livick hosted an open discussion on the educational uses and implications of readily available language models and AI bots like ChatGPT.
Attendees enjoyed the discussions and information, especially mentioning the usefulness of information about how to integrate computer science tools into English Language Arts, Math, and Social Studies curriculum.
The AESD Computer Science Leads group would like to thank all our presenters and attendees. If you missed it, it’s not too late – you can still view the resources and recordings from the February session here, or register (free) to join us for the May session. Each session is self-contained and features timely breakout sessions of interest to all educators. May’s session will feature information on engaging Native American students in computer science and technology education, among other topics. We hope to see you there!