“Whether you want to uncover the secrets of the universe, or you just want to pursue a career in the 21st century, basic computer programming is an essential skill to learn.” ~ Stephen Hawking
On Thursday, December 12 approximately 100 students and parents participated in a countywide event called, Hour of Code in the MVE library. Facilitated by MVE Integration Media Specialists Catie Barber and Annika Troyer, students and parents enjoyed the opportunity to have fun exploring basic concepts of computer programming.
What is the Hour of Code?
Code.org describes the Hour of Code as an invitation into the world of computer science aimed at “… increasing access to computer science by breaking stereotypes and opening doors. Somebody may learn programming concepts like loops, conditionals, or basic debugging through the Hour of Code. But a much more important goal is for students and teachers to learn that computer science is fun — you can start at any age, in any classroom, even if you don’t have a computer.”
What is Coding?
Simply put, code is a series of commands or instructions written for computers to produce a desired output. Coding is just the act of writing these commands.
Computer programmers are the specialists who use programming languages to code just about everything in our technology-driven society. Code is used for everything from building websites and keeping the internet functional to developing new apps and software. Programmers can find themselves being well compensated, working in nearly any industry, ranging from agriculture, healthcare, and finance, to automotive, alternative energy sources, and manufacturing.
We’d like to extend our gratitude and appreciation to MVE Integration Specialists Catie Barber and Annika Troyer, MVSD Director of Technology Integration and Information Systems, Drew Simmons and the many parents and students who participated in the Hour of Code.
We’d also like to thank the taxpaying citizens of the Methow Valley for their generous support of our students through the successful passage of our local levies, ensuring a bright future for every student.