With technology changing every industry on the planet, computing knowledge has become part of a well-rounded skillset. Computer Programming skill is no longer a privilege but a necessity that everyone must have!
In view of the foregoing, every year in December, students and teachers all over the world have a chance to participate in Computer Science and Coding activities during Computer Science Education Week. This year’s events run from December 4-10, 2017.
The week is held in recognition of the birthday of computing pioneer Admiral Grace Murray Hopper (December 9, 1906). The initiative is a program dedicated to inspire students from primary to senior secondary school to take an interest in Computer Science.
Peter Albertson is hosting Hour of Code Event
We at Peter Albertson Limited as usual will be joining millions of students and teachers globally in celebrating this year’s Computer Science Education Week in Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria. We’ll be hosting a one-hour introduction to Computer Science that is designed to demystify “code “ and show that anybody can learn the basics and to broaden participation in the field of Computer Science. The Computer Science Education week is also a time to promote and encourage STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) in fun and accessible ways. Whether you’re 9 or 90 now is the perfect time to learn how to code and learn the coding skills that will power the future.
Why computer science?
Every student should have the opportunity to learn computer science. It helps nurture problem-solving skills, logic and creativity. By starting early, students will have a foundation for success in any 21st-century career path. Basically, the goal of the Computer Science Education week is not only aimed at introducing students to Computer Science but also to help students start developing technology skills that will benefit them in the future.
Computer Science is a foundational field for every 21st century career or field of study. Learning the basics of computer science prepares students for a world that is increasingly dominated by technology. And that’s the more reason we are so excited about this initiative and why we are strong advocates for Computer Science education, computational thinking, and coding for all Nigerians no matter the age.
We also believe that when you give a child the opportunity to make something that is real and teach them the skills to do it on their own – the outcomes can be mind- blowing.
What is computer coding?
Coding is simply telling a computer what to do by providing a series of step -by -step instructions, and it’s how we create software, apps and websites – all of which power the digital world we live in.
Why Learn how to code?
In today’s world, knowing how to code is like having a super power because many people have great ideas, but only just few can turn those ideas into reality. Besides, coding is fun and involves logic, problem solving, computational thinking, psychology and a lot of design and creativity. When you learn how to code, you can easily turn your ideas into downloadable apps with global distribution.
Who is behind the Hour of Code?
The Hour of Code is driven by the Hour of Code and Computer Science Education Week Advisory and Review Committees as well as an unprecedented coalition of partners that have come together to support the Hour of Code — including Microsoft, Apple, Amazon, Boys and Girls Clubs of America and the College Board.
How can I get involved in Computer Science Education Week?
Participants in an Hour of Code event wherever you are can choose from guided tutorials or can join in scheduled Hour of Code activities that education or community groups and organisations like Peter Albertson Limited have organised at different locations in Nigeria.
Alternatively, students can get involved in Computer Science Education Week by holding Hour of Code activities in their classroom. Simply go to Code.org to get started. They have activities for primary through senior secondary school. They even have courses to help teachers if you think you need to polish your own skills.
Beyond the Computer Science Education Week Activities
Many young people are very comfortable sending short messages on Whatsapp, playing online games, and browsing the Web and having a Facebook, Instagram or Twitter accounts.
But does that really make them fluent with new technologies? Though they interact with digital media all the time, few are able to create their own games, animations, or simulations. It’s as if they can “read” but not “write.” As we see it, digital fluency requires not just the ability to chat, browse, and interact but also the ability to design, create, and invent with new media.
The Hour of Code is just the first step on a journey to learn more about how technology works and how to create software applications. To continue this journey with you, we have after school Coding Club and Saturdays Learn2Code Club where students ages 9 – 18 can learn programming in a fun and safe environment. We also organize Coding Camps during the Easter and August holidays. Students are welcome to join. No past experience is required.
- Saturdays Learn2Code Club
- After School Coding Club*
- Easter Holidays Coding Camp in April
- Summer Holidays Coding Camp in August
Parents are encouraged to enroll their children in our coding club. Students who register to participate in the Coding Club and/or Holidays Coding Camp learn the fundamentals of computer science while developing their coding skills. They are also equipped with the necessary tools to help them build their very own games, apps, interactive stories and websites. “Coding clubs” are a great way to have fun learning with friends. Coding is a team sport! If you can code, you can solve problems. Problem-solvers have the power to make the world a better place, so register in our coding club and start coding today.
Indeed, our primary goal is not to prepare children for careers as professional programmers but to nurture a new generation of creative, systematic thinkers comfortable using programming to express their ideas. And above all, our focus is to inspire and empower future creators, innovators and change makers to create infinite possibilities.
Students Programming Courses:
These are just a few of the concepts the students will be taught including motivational talks, career guidance and so much more:
- Scratch programming
- Swift programming
- Python programming
- JavaScript
- HTML
- CSS
- Unplugged Activities
- Living in a Digital World
- The Internet, Cybersecurity & Crime
Minimum Requirements
Students must be familiar with and comfortable operating the laptop i.e able to switch the computer on/off and familiar with the keyboard.
Drop us an email: info@peteralbertson.com.ng for more information on how you can enroll your child in Saturdays Learn2Code Club and/or Holiday Camp or call 0909 725 8959 or WhatsApp 0809 655 2452. Alternatively, you may want us to come to your school to start the *After School Coding Club for your students if you are a School Owner, Principal, or Administrator. Enquire now.
We are passionate about what we do, so spread the word!