Course

Programming for the 21st century classroom

Upcoming courses

  • 14-18 October 2019 / also 3-day participation possible
  • October 2020, dates to be confirmed

Course description

Coding and computational thinking are becoming more and more important in our society and working life. Learning to code develops various skills such as problem-solving, abstract-thinking, communication, logical reasoning and creativity, and impacts student motivation in mathematics theory as it encourages them to apply their knowledge.

Schools play a key role in introducing programming to students in an engaging way and help students discover career opportunities offered by computer science. During the course teachers will learn about the importance and applications of programming in today's society and education, learn ways to introduce programming in their teaching, discover and test different programming tools, explore ways to motivate and encourage students, and develop a programming lesson plan for their classrooms.

The course is addressed to secondary school teachers:

  • Computer science teachers who want to get new ideas, tools for teaching their subject
  • STEM and other teachers who would like to link and/or apply programming in their subjects

The participants are expected to have intermediate computer skills, but previous programming experience is not necessary.

Learning objectives

  • Learn about the importance of programming and computational thinking in today's society and education (i.e. related transversal skills)
  • Discover and test different programming tools
  • Learn ways to introduce programming in cross-curricular work
  • Explore ways to motivate and encourage students
  • Develop a programming lesson plan.
  • Exchange with like-minded peers to exchange resources, ideas and provide guidance to each other.
  • Learn about eTwinning and how to start a collaborative project with European teachers.

Comments from our participants

  • "I really appreciated the vertical approach to teaching of educational technology with software adapted to the various school levels."
  • "It was excellent experience, lots of knowledge, new tips and ideas. Well organized course."
  • "Very useful course. Lot of new and innovative ideas to apply with my students. Pleasant experience in meeting and knowing other colleagues across Europe. I definitely suggest this course to other interested participants."

Further information

  • The course is listed in the School Education Gateway course catalogue
  • This is a 5-day course, from Monday to Friday. It is also possible to take part in a shorter, 3-day version from Monday to Wednesday. Priority is given to the 5-day participants.
  • This is a full day course meaning the daily instruction time is about 6,5 hours.
  • The lunches are organised at the training venue and included in the course price. Also coffee breaks are provided and included. One dinner is organised for the participants as well.
  • The participants are welcome to join social & cultural activities organised in the evenings.
  • The participants should have at least basic knowledge on ICT and be able to communicate in English.
  • See more practical information here
  • Contact us for further information: fcl@eun.org