From Digital Literacy to Computer Science: A Vision for Middle School CS Education

September 28, 2017
2:50pm - 4:00pm
Halligan 102
Speaker: Fred Martin, University of Massachusetts, Lowell
Host: Ethan Danahy

Abstract

What should computer science education for K-12 look like? Momentum is building for "CS For All" -- providing computer science education to all K-12 students. I will introduce conversations occurring with policy-makers, funders, and educators: equity and access to CS education; curricula projects at the primary, middle school, and high school levels; integration vs. siloed CS courses; required vs. elective offerings. We will discuss the emerging construct of "computational thinking" and how computer science is impacting all disciplines. I'll also describe my own work creating a middle school CS curriculum in partnership with district leadership and classroom teachers in Medford and Everett, MA. This will be an interactive presentation: I will be asking you to discuss various topics in small groups and share out as part of the session.

Bio

Dr. Fred Martin is Professor of Computer Science and Director of Student Success for the Kennedy College of Sciences at the University of Massachusetts Lowell (UML). Martin founded his research group, the Engaging Computing Group, when he joined UML in 2002. His group develops and studies novel computational environments for learning. Fred will be working at the Tufts Center for Engineering Education and Outreach (CEEO) as a Visiting Professor during the fall 2017 semester.