I'm researching/teaching introductory programming and computer science at a
non-profit organization (www.BFOIT.org). We are attempting to increase the
diversity in UC computer science and engineering programs, which means we
target female, African American, Hispanic, first-to-attend-college in their families,
etc... students. Because of this, our students tend to be those skeptical of
pursuing CS and engineering programs. And this has a major effect on how I
present the material. I want all students to see that programming (actually
structured thought) can be useful even if they decide not to pursue a career as
a programmer/computer scientist.
Checkout: http://www.bfoit.org/itp/itp.html
I bring it up only because you have mentioned an interest in a couple of
dialects of Logo. The course is based on a dialect that I'm working on. It's
intent is to prepare a student for AP CS, thus Java. So, it is written in Java
and has some Java-oriented concepts blended in with UC Berkeley Logo and
the multiple-turtles feature of Microworlds.
A word of warning: it is a work in progress, but it is also being used in public
schools - I get e-mail questions/suggestions every few days. I am nearing the
end of a comprehensive re-write and part of this pass includes providing an
"Instructor Notes" section.
You might be able to use bits/pieces of it with either Microworlds or Starlogo.
Also, since this is research on my part, I may be able to add more introductory
content if this is needed in your case, and you can provide the suggestions.
guy
----- Original Message -----
From: "Carol" <csukonec@PENNCHARTER.COM>
Subject: Programming Curriculum in Middle School
>
> I am interested in creating a middle school course in programming. Scratch
> is already being introduced in our enrichment program in our lower school.
> Programs I am considering are Alice, Starlogo, Microworlds, HTML. If anyone
> is teaching a programming course(s) either as part of the curriculum or in
> an after school setting I would like to hear what you are teaching. If there
> is a written curriculum would you be willing to share it? Are there other
> programs you might suggest I consider?
>
> Carol : )
>
> Carol Hoffman Sukoneck
> MS Technology Coordinator
> Wm Penn Charter School
> 3000 W School House Lane
> Philadelphia, PA 19144
> 215-844-3460
> http://www.penncharter.com
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