Get Coding! A First Hour of Python for Teachers

Middle and High School Teachers: Get ready to bring the basics of programming into your classroom!

Whether you're just getting started with coding, or have experience and are looking for the right tools to teach with, this event will equip you to teach your first lesson using Python. The event will be split into two parts: a Python tutorial and a Q&A discussion. There will be several assistants available throughout to event to answer individual questions.

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A big thanks to The Triangle Python User Group, who is sponsoring lunch for the event.

Part 1: 11:00 - 12:00

We'll walk you through the basics of Python using interactive, visual examples from http://trinket.io . This is an hour long introduction which will cover several basic programming concepts. Attendees will be able to proceed at their own pace and we'll discuss pedagogy and learning strategies. Topics covered will include loops, functions, and basic data types.

Lunch 12:00 - 12:30

Lunch will be provided. Please note any dietary restrictions when you Register.

Part 2: 12:30 - 1:30

The second session of the day will feature helpful suggestions from instructors who've brought these tools into the classroom. In addition, we'll have time for discussion and Q&A designed to help you figure out how you can incorporate Python into your teaching, no matter what you teach. We'll have helpful suggestions for subjects ranging from Physics to English. We'll finish with a range of resources for going deeper and learning more.

Practice (optional): 1:30 - 2:30

The room and instructors will remain available after the event for further discussion, practice, and questions. Peer teaching of the material can be an effective way to cement the new concepts learned, so advanced attendees will be encouraged to tutor others during this time.

Outcomes

After attending this event, participants should:

• Be familiar with basic concepts of programming such as loops, data types, and functions

• Be able to guide others through basic interactive Python examples on the Web

• Feel confident in bringing one hour or more of Python instruction into their classroom

• Feel excited about learning more about Programming

What do I need to attend?

No prior experience is required. Each participant will use their own laptop. Please notify an organizer if you will not be able to bring your own laptop and we will provide one for you.

What age ranges and teaching levels is this for?

Teachers of Middle School and High School students are ideal, thought those who teach adult beginners may benefit from the event as well. Python is an incredibly flexible teaching language. The only limitation is typing skills: young children or students who are unfamiliar with a keyboard will likely be better off with visual languages like Scratch, which we hope to cover in subsequent events.

Special thanks to Tripython for sponsoring lunch and and the Renaissance Computing Institute for hosting this event.