Best Practices in Computer Science Education: Examples from Other States
There are numerous pathways to achieving Computer Science for All at the state level. Teacher licensure, curricular requirements, funding, and issues of access and equity all present challenges that are unique to each state, city, and school district. Panelists discussed hurdles faced, strategies used, and lessons learned in a variety of states and contexts. Panelists highlighted approaches used that helped facilitate the successful and sustainable implementation of K-12 computer science.
Moderator: Jake Baskin - Computer Science Teachers Association
Speakers:
Recording of panel discussion please click here
Implementing Computer Science Curricula
To effectively support rigorous learning in computer science and the integration of computational thinking in all disciplines, teachers need instructional materials, professional development, and ongoing support. Schools and districts further need methods to define and evaluate learning outcomes in computer science and computational thinking. Panelists described critical features and lessons learnt from the design, implementation and use of various instructional materials.
Moderator: Todd Lash - Doctoral Student, Special Education, University of Illinois, Urbana - Champaign
Speakers:
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Developing a 21st Century Workforce
Building an Illinois workforce for the 21st century and addressing our state’s most pressing challenges requires us to think critically about what knowledge and experiences need to be afforded to our students. What are the skills that students will need to hone to successfully enter and remain in the future workforce? What are the experiences, internships, and work-based learning opportunities that need to be created to foster successful transition to a new, digital workforce? Panelists identified the skills, experiences, and collaborations necessary for Illinois to continue to grow a skilled and innovative modern workforce.
Moderator: Kandace Turner - Assistant Director for Economic Development, Office of the Vice President for Economic Development and Innovation
Speakers:
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Supporting Research and Implementation of Computer Science Education
Effectively teaching computer science in a K-12 setting and preparing students for the many careers that now require computer science is still a new enterprise. Research is needed on many topics such as what to teach, how to teach it, when to teach it, and how to evaluate and improve teaching. Implementing computer science education requires partnerships and different strategies to spin up new programs that will work in rural areas and inner cities. Panelists described strategies and programs that can contribute to building and sustaining computer science in Illinois.
Moderator: Luc Paquette - Assistant Professor, Curriculum and Instruction, University of Illinois, Urbana - Champaign
Speakers:
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Implementing Computer Science Education in Illinois
This panel explored strategies, policies, structural environments, and teacher supports that would enable school districts throughout the state to introduce quality computer science instruction into the K-12 curriculum. Panelists also identified ways in which higher education, the state, and schools might cooperate to ensure success.
Moderator: Jerry Weinberg - Associate Provost for Research, Dean of Graduate School and Professor of Computer Science, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Speakers:
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Achieving CSForAll - Diversity and Inclusion
Achieving equity in computer science involves increasing access to CS courses as well as using creativity and innovation to provide equitable opportunities for all. All students must have access to a quality computer science education. This panel described best practices and discuss strategies and metrics that promote equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Moderator: Becky Goldberg - Program Manager, Illinois Science and Technology Coalition
Speakers:
Recording of panel discussion please click here
2019 Illinois Statewide Summit Planning Committee
Co-Chairs:
Planning Committee Members: