CodeNow Launches Pilot Program
Last weekend we launched CodeNow’s pilot program for under-represented youth. Thirteen students, comprised of 9 boys and 4 girls, attended our training at the New Organizing Institute. It was a truly fantastic experience!
The program started off by the students being asked to write instructions on how to make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. This seemingly simple exercise changed their perception on how to look at basic tasks and set the tone for the entire weekend. By the early afternoon of the first day students had built videogames and animations on their own, using Scratch an open source program developed by MIT.
On day two using Lego Mindstorms, a line of programmable robotics/ construction toys made out of Legos, we taught students how to build and program robots. By the end of the weekend training, students had built 7 different robots which used motion, sound and color sensors to spin in circles, run into walls and grab objects.
It was incredible to watch the creativity and self-confidence of our students grow as the weekend progressed. Students did not think it was possible to build projects like these in such a short period of time. Most of them expected to sit in front of computers all weekend and be lectured to for hours. The creativity and hands-on nature of the program took them by surprise.
As we process all of the materials, we will share our findings. Thank you for your interest and support of CodeNow. This was a big first step and would have not been possible if not for the hard work and support of so many people. An extra-special thanks goes to our partners: Google, Cynergy Systems, iStrategy Labs, Fission Strategy, Jumpstart Labs and New Organizing Institute.
Our next weekend training is tentatively planned for the end of September. Look forward to updating you on our progress!
Many Thanks,
Ryan Seashore
