Category Archives: Coding Education

Fun Learning Activities for Families

Unleash the Potential for Growth with CodeREV

New year, new skills! As 2024 unfolds, it’s the perfect time for families to embark on a journey of exploration for fun learning activities together. At CodeREV, we’re passionate about making education a joyful experience, and we’re excited to share a collection of fun learning activities that will not only bring families closer but also foster the acquisition of new skills in this new year.

Dive into DIY Science Experiments

Make science come alive in your own home with easy and exciting DIY science experiments. From erupting volcanoes to creating a rainbow in a jar, these hands-on activities not only entertain but also teach valuable scientific concepts. We truly believe in the power of experiential learning, and our science-based programs are designed to engage young minds in a similar way.

Explore the World of Coding Challenges

Introduce your family to the language of the future with coding challenges. Coding is not just for tech enthusiasts; it’s a skill that promotes logical thinking and problem-solving. You can start with our coding programs suitable for all skill levels, ensuring that the entire family can enjoy the thrill of creating something unique through coding.

Get Creative with Arts and Crafts

Arts and crafts aren’t just for creating beautiful masterpieces; they’re also fantastic for developing fine motor skills and encouraging self-expression. Engage your family in creative activities that spark imagination and innovation. The importance of creativity in learning is crucial, and our programs incorporate artistic elements to make the educational journey even more enjoyable.

CodeREV Kids: Where Learning Becomes a Family Affair

As you venture into these new learning activities, we can be your partners in education. Our after-school classes and STEM programs are crafted to not only provide quality education but also to foster a love for learning within the family unit. From game design to robotics, we offer diverse options to cater to every learning style.

New Year, New Skills: Fun Learning Activities for Families

A Year of Discovery Awaits

This new year, let’s make learning a family affair filled with excitement, creativity, and shared accomplishments. At CodeREV, we believe that every family has the potential to unlock new skills and create lasting memories through education.

Join us on this journey of discovery and growth. The possibilities for learning are endless, and the joy of acquiring new skills knows no bounds.

Discover the magic of learning with CodeREV – where families come together to explore, create, and thrive.

Empowering the Next Generation: Integrating STEM in the Classroom

In the fast-paced world of education, where innovation and adaptability are paramount, equipping students with the tools to navigate the future is a responsibility that educators bear with unwavering dedication. Enter STEM education—Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics—a holistic approach that transcends traditional subject boundaries, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. In this exploration, we’ll delve into the profound significance of STEM in the classroom, unveil practical strategies for seamlessly integrating STEM into the curriculum, and celebrate the transformative power of hands-on STEM activities in shaping the leaders of tomorrow.

The Significance of STEM in the classroom

STEM education stands as a beacon of relevance in today’s global landscape. It goes beyond the conventional realms of academic success, becoming a cornerstone for preparing students to engage meaningfully in an array of industries. The demand for STEM skills is not just a trend; it’s a reflection of the rapidly evolving job market. According to recent studies, occupations in STEM-related fields are expected to grow at a rate much faster than the average for all occupations1. This highlights not only the professional relevance of STEM skills but also the imperative for educators to instill these capabilities in their students.

Practical Strategies for Seamless Integration

To ensure the seamless integration of STEM into the curriculum, educators are adopting innovative strategies that transcend traditional disciplinary boundaries. Cross-disciplinary approaches are gaining traction, showcasing the interconnected nature of STEM subjects and breaking down silos between science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Project-based learning has emerged as a dynamic method, providing students with real-world challenges that demand collaborative problem-solving. Imagine students designing sustainable solutions for their communities or creating prototypes to address global issues—this is the essence of STEM in action.

STEM in the classroom

– Real-world examples abound of educators successfully incorporating STEM into their classrooms. From integrating coding exercises into mathematics lessons to utilizing engineering principles in science experiments, these approaches not only enhance subject understanding but also cultivate essential skills such as critical thinking, teamwork, and adaptability. The emphasis is on making STEM in the classroom education accessible and relatable to students, regardless of their background or future career aspirations.

Engaging Students through Hands-On STEM Activities

The transformative power of hands-on STEM activities cannot be overstated. These activities serve as catalysts for engagement, turning abstract concepts into tangible experiences that resonate with students. Whether it’s constructing simple machines, conducting chemistry experiments, or programming robots, hands-on activities captivate students’ interest and ignite a genuine passion for learning.

Consider the impact of a physics experiment where students design and launch their own bottle rockets. Beyond equations and theories, students learn about aerodynamics, trajectory, and problem-solving in a way that textbooks alone cannot convey. These experiences not only make STEM in the classroom enjoyable but also instill a curiosity that extends beyond the classroom.

Partnering with External STEM in the classroom Programs

Collaboration with external STEM programs or organizations further enriches the educational experience. These partnerships provide access to unique resources, expert insights, and opportunities for students to witness the real-world applications of STEM concepts. Schools that embrace external STEM collaborations often report increased student engagement, enhanced teacher professional development, and a broader perspective on the possibilities within STEM fields.

Success stories abound in schools that have welcomed external STEM programs, from participating in robotics competitions to engaging in industry-specific projects. These collaborations not only complement classroom learning but also expose students to a diverse range of STEM careers, sparking inspiration for future endeavors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, STEM education is not merely a teaching method; it’s a transformative force that empowers students to navigate a future marked by innovation and complexity. As educators, the responsibility to prepare the next generation of problem-solvers, innovators, and leaders rests in our hands. By embracing STEM as a dynamic and essential component of the learning journey, we pave the way for students to unlock their full potential and contribute meaningfully to a world brimming with opportunities.

As we move forward, let us celebrate the impact of STEM in education and continue exploring innovative approaches that inspire curiosity, fuel creativity, and empower the leaders of tomorrow.


Footnotes

  1. Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Empowering Minds: Teaching Critical Thinking Skills in the 21st-Century Classroom

In today’s rapidly evolving world, traditional education is no longer enough. We’re preparing students not just for their future jobs, but for jobs that don’t even exist yet. To navigate this uncertain terrain successfully, students need more than just rote memorization and textbook knowledge. They need to be critical thinkers, problem solvers, and creative innovators. In this blog post, we explore the importance of teaching critical thinking skills and share strategies to foster these essential skills in the 21st-century classroom.

Why Critical Thinking Matters

Critical thinking is not just a buzzword; it’s a fundamental skill that empowers students to analyze, evaluate, and solve problems effectively. In a world inundated with information, the ability to discern fact from fiction, think logically, and make informed decisions is indispensable. Critical thinkers are not just passive consumers of information but active participants in the learning process.

The Three Pillars of 21st-Century Education

  • Critical Thinking: This is the ability to analyze information objectively, evaluate arguments, and make well-informed decisions. Critical thinkers are curious, open-minded, and willing to consider alternative viewpoints.
  • Problem-Solving: Problem-solving involves identifying, defining, and finding solutions to complex issues. It’s about thinking creatively, using available resources, and persevering through challenges.
  • Creativity: Creativity is not confined to the arts; it’s a valuable skill in all aspects of life. Creative thinkers can generate innovative ideas, approach problems from different angles, and adapt to changing circumstances.

Strategies for Teaching Critical Thinking Skills

  • Questioning: Encourage students to ask questions. Engage in Socratic questioning to guide them in exploring issues critically.
  • Problem-Based Learning: Present real-world problems for students to solve. This hands-on approach forces them to apply their critical thinking skills.
  • Collaboration: Group activities foster critical thinking as students share perspectives and solve problems together.
  • Debate: Debates encourage students to analyze and defend their viewpoints logically.
  • Multidisciplinary Learning: Connect various subjects to show students how critical thinking is relevant across disciplines.
Critical Thinking Skills

Assessing Critical Thinking Skills

Assessment is key to ensuring students are developing critical thinking skills. Consider using open-ended questions, essays, or presentations to evaluate their ability to think critically. Rubrics and criteria should emphasize not just the final answer but the thought process, analysis, and creativity applied.

The Role of Teachers

Teachers play a pivotal role in nurturing critical thinking skills. They should be facilitators, creating an environment where students are encouraged to think critically. This involves being open to diverse viewpoints, providing opportunities for exploration, and guiding students through the problem-solving process.

Conclusion: Preparing for an Uncertain Future

As we embrace the 21st century, we must acknowledge that the future is uncertain, but one thing is clear: critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity are non-negotiable skills. They empower students to adapt, innovate, and lead in a world where change is the only constant. As educators, it’s our responsibility to nurture these skills, preparing the next generation to face whatever challenges the future holds.

In the 21st-century classroom, teaching goes beyond facts and figures; it’s about empowering minds to think critically and shape a better world. Are you ready to embark on this exciting journey with your students? Explore the possibilities with CodeREV.

STEM and Creativity: How They Go Hand in Hand

When we think of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), we often envision formulas, calculations, and technical concepts. However, there’s a common misconception that STEM is devoid of creativity. In this blog post, we’re here to debunk that myth and explore the rich interplay between STEM and creativity.

STEM and Creativity
STEM and Creativity

1. Creativity within the field:

STEM fields thrive on creativity just as much as they rely on data and equations. From designing innovative solutions to complex problems to imagining the next groundbreaking video game, creativity is the driving force that pushes STEM forward.

2. Solving Real-World Challenges:

Creativity in STEM is about identifying unique approaches to solving real-world challenges. Think of engineers designing sustainable buildings, scientists developing life-saving medical technologies, and programmers crafting a code. Each of these endeavors requires creative thinking to develop efficient and effective solutions.

3. Exploring New Frontiers:

Curiosity and imagination are the cornerstones of scientific discovery. Scientists and researchers often push the boundaries of knowledge by asking daring questions and proposing novel hypotheses. Indeed, this creative process leads to breakthroughs that transform our understanding of the world.

4. Innovation Through Collaboration:

Collaboration between individuals from diverse backgrounds fuels innovation. The exchange of ideas from various perspectives encourages creative problem-solving. STEM projects often involve teamwork, where each member contributes their unique insights to achieve a common goal.

5. Art of Design in Engineering:

Engineering is a prime example of creativity within STEM. For instance, engineers not only solve problems but also design products, systems, and structures that are functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing. Balancing these factors overall requires a high degree of creativity.

6. Coding as a Creative Language:

Also, coding, often associated with logic, is also a creative process. Writing code involves constructing intricate sequences of commands to bring ideas to life. Like composing music or writing a story, certainly coding is a language of creativity.

7. STEM Education’s Creative Approach:

Finally, educators emphasize creative problem-solving in STEM education. Also, students are encouraged to explore multiple solutions, think critically, and express their ideas through projects and presentations. This approach nurtures not only their analytical skills but also their imaginative capacities.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, STEM and creativity are not mutually exclusive; rather, they are intertwined in a dance of innovation and discovery. The essence of creativity lies in thinking beyond conventional boundaries, and STEM fields offer a canvas for such imaginative thinking. We believe that embracing creativity in STEM education, we foster a generation of individuals who can tackle complex challenges, shape the future, and truly transform the world. 

Lastly, we invite you to explore our game design, coding and engineering classes for kids at https://www.coderevkids.com/onlineclasses.php

Computer Science Learning Statistics

With COVID-19, Computer science education has become more important than ever. The pandemic has highlighted our need for computing use and its power to help us all innovate and adapt. From small businesses to families, companies, and education, we all relied on the advantages of technology to survive unprecedented times. Yet, at the same time, it has shown the disparities, especially, in schools to provide students with computer education.

Today, computing-related jobs are the number one source of new wages in the U.S. economy. In fact, there are currently 400,000 open computing jobs across the United States. Yet, the problem is that the education system as a whole still isn’t actually providing the needed access to this crucial subject.

Take a look at some of the most relevant statistics about Computer Science taken from the Annual report on K-12 computer science in the United States.

Every child should have the opportunity to access high quality computer science lessons that will eventually help them develop foundational 21st-century skills for their future. Sometimes, the best way to get this is by learning from experts in the field, like the people who may teach after school enrichment and camps. Check our After-School Classes where your child will find coding, design, animation, math and many other computational skills to explore in a safe environment guided by our industry expert mentors.

Best coding languages for teenagers

Coding is an incredibly useful skill for almost everyone. It helps you understand how things work, solve problems, find innovative solutions, attention to detail, and plenty more. Learning to code at a young age can really improve the development of these fundamental life skills and open new career and job opportunities for the future. But, deciphering all the different coding languages available for teenagers can seem intimidating, especially if they are just getting started!

Since coding is an essential 21st-century skill, there are numerous coding languages designed to teach youngsters how to start coding. Choosing the right coding language for your child’s age can open a window into the world of programming. The better your child understands one of these languages (including its syntax and grammar), the more likely they’ll be able to create, design and code whatever they want. But, before finding out the best coding languages for teenagers you might want to know “what’s a coding language?”

What is a coding language?

A coding language is a language we use to give instructions that a computer can follow. Those instructions allow us to develop software programs, scripts, or other sets of instructions for computers to execute. Like in spoken languages, such as Spanish or Italian, coding languages can share similarities, but each one has its own rules. In coding languages, these rules are called syntax. And unlike spoken languages, if there’s a slight error in your syntax, the computer won’t be able to understand what you want. That’s why coding requires so much dedication and attention to detail.

Fortunately, there are plenty of options out there for every skill and experience level. Usually, block-based code is used to introduce kids to code since it’s less intimidating because it involves dragging “blocks” of code with the instructions you want to give to the computer. But, more advanced coders can start exploring text-based code with coding languages designed especially for them.

Best coding languages for teens - Minecraft

Below, we’ll break down the characteristics, advantages, and level of challenge of the coding language we think are best for teens to engage with code. Java, Lua, and C# are among the most popular, so let’s take a closer look at each one!

Java:

Java is the coding language used in Minecraft and one of the most widely used coding languages in the world. This makes it a great option for kids that love playing Minecraft as they will be more motivated to stick with it since they can use it to actually modify the game of Minecraft. It is also the perfect approach to get a better understanding of coding and keep growing in the matter in the future. 

Java works on different platforms (Windows, Mac, Linux, Raspberry Pi, etc.), and is also easy to learn and simple to use. Besides its versatility, Java is secure, fast and powerful, allowing its users to make game engines, Android mobile apps, large backend environments, and much more!

Recommended for:

  • Teens who play Minecraft and want to level up their game experience
  • Teens who want to explore programming concepts
  • Teens who already have a background in coding and want to strengthen their skills

Featured courses: Modding in Minecraft

Lua:

Lua is a powerful and fast coding language that is easy to learn and use. That’s why it is probably the perfect language to start learning with. Lua is lightweight and designed essentially for embedded use in applications. One of the most popular examples is Roblox. Roblox uses Lua to develop actions in the game such as conditionals, loops, variables and more. 

Lua is a multi-paradigm language, which means that it has a set of features that can be applied to many issues. The popularity of Lua comes from its multiple applications. You can not just find Lua in Roblox, World of Warcraft, and Angry Birds but also use Lua code. 

Recommended for:

  • Teens who play Roblox and want to improve their game skills 
  • Teens who want to learn to code quickly
  • Teens  interested in game design

Featured course: Roblox Studio Game Design (Macro)

C#:

C# is the perfect solution for learning to code while making 3D games. C# is a popular coding language used to develop everything from mobile applications and video games to enterprise software. C# it’s very similar to Java, which makes it easier to learn for someone who already knows this coding language. 

C# is a great way to start diving deeper into the world of coding. Because of the multiple applications it has, C# is the fourth most in-demand programming language for jobs.  This makes it an amazing option for middle and high-school students who want to pursue a career in STEM fields.

Recommended for:

  • Teens who are interested in designing video games
  • Teens who would like to explore developing apps for cellphones and tablets
  • Teens who already have explored Java with Minecraft

Featured course: Unity 3D Game Design

We hope this guide helped you obtain a better understanding of the coding languages that can make your children excited about coding. If you need help to decide which one would be a better fit for your child’s skills and interests, you can reach out through our social media accounts. 

Best coding languages for kids

Since technology has become present in our lives, dominating coding languages has become a need for adults and children. Indeed, programming for youngsters is turning into an undeniably necessary subject. Learning how to code at a young age can genuinely set your kid up for success. They don’t just develop basic coding skills, but skills for the rest of their life.

Today, even kindergartners can start exploring different coding languages that fit their age needs. Learning code abilities at a young age will impact their development in STEM, and so forth, in their future careers. Also, studies have shown that coding reinforces skills like problem solving, logic, creativity and critical thinking. 

A parent’s guide to coding languages

Programming is the language of the future and learning how to effectively use it is easier than it looks. First of all, you should know that there are a huge amount of coding languages for kids to start with. Scratch, Java, Python, some forms of JavaScript, and Lua are probably the best, and most known, coding languages to begin with for kids. 

In any case, each coding language has its own working framework, style and expected use. But in general, these languages show kids how to track down an answer for an issue using an arrangement of steps, activities or directions. 

Generally, children tend to quickly become familiar with coding languages designed for them. Kids learn better through visual boost and this is the reason why graphical programming programs turn out better for beginners. Once children understand fundamental coding concepts, they can move to text-based programming languages  (line coding) and learn the syntax of various programming languages.

But, how to choose the best coding language for your child? 

It might be hard to decide the best way to introduce your child to code. That’s why we made our top 3 of what we consider the best coding languages for kids! Check it out with us, and feel free to ask us any questions you have to help you choose the best coding class for your child.

Scratch

Scratch is a free educational programming language developed by Mitch Resnick and patented by the Lifelong Kindergarten Group at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Learning to code with Scratch is easy for kids because of it’s intuitive, easy-to-use visual block interface. This makes it an amazing starting point for kids to start connecting with code.

Best Coding Languages for Kids: Scratch

The simplification of the process of designing games and creating stories and their big online community makes Scratch the perfect coding language to introduce your child to code from ages 6 to 16.

Lua

Lua is the perfect coding language to introduce children to text-based code since it’s easy to learn, use, and embed into applications. The power of Lua coding is that with a beginner-friendly language, it introduces simple concepts that can turn into greater creations.

Best codinga languages for kids_lua
Best Coding Languages for Kids: Lua

In addition to its simplicity and efficiency, Lua is used by Roblox which is a game platform adored by kids. Learning to code with Lua in Roblox, allows kids to create exciting and fun games that they can share with all their friends. 

Java

Java is one of the most used coding languages in the world. Gmail, by Google, and Twitter, for example, were created in Java, as well as one of the most popular computer games nowadays: Minecraft! If your child is into Minecraft, Java can be a great programming language to create with.

Java gives a richer insight of coding as it’s designed to continue developing over the years. Although it’s harder to learn because of its variables, Java catches children’s excitement as it is widely used to make video games and mobile apps. It is also a great entry level object oriented programming language, typically focused on CS programs later in school. Its scalability makes it perfect for kids from 10 to 16.

These days, learning to code is a priceless and useful skill for kids. Understanding how something works, how to solve problems and being able to create new scenarios has a myriad of benefits for budding young programmers.. Regardless of the age of your child, there’s a perfect coding language they can start exploring to open a world of opportunities. Do you have any questions, comments, or suggestions? If so, we’d love to hear from you! 

Challenge Your Child to Take on a New Activity

The list of jobs of a good parent is long. Of course, the basics are necessary – food, clothing, education, etc. – but the list gets much longer as we think of ways for parents to help nurture their child’s intellect and curiosity. At CodeREV Kids, we have some unique ways to challenge your child through the joys of learning to code.

Coding can help your child for the rest of their life

There are plenty of activities your child can take part in, so you may be wondering – why coding? The truth is that there is a long list of reasons that coding can help your child. Not only will your child learn valuable skills today, but the demand for employees who can code is only projected to go up in future years. What’s more, it’s not just coders they’re looking for. Future jobs may seek out employees in all sectors who also know how to code.

Your child can build on a host of skills

When your child comes to one of our coding classes, they’ll learn about coding but they’ll be building other skills too. Our classes help foster critical thinking and team work. They help improve our students’ self-esteem and they can increase their interest in both math and science. Whether your goal is to help them specifically learn coding, or to boost their self-confidence or help them make new friends, it’s all available here.

Our instructors have unique backgrounds

When a company is staffing for a company like this, what do you think they should focus on more: Instructors who have experience teaching children or instructors who are experts in coding specifically? For other companies, this may be a difficult question to answer but for us it was easy: Our instructors are both. They come to us with vast experience teaching children and creating curriculum, but they’re also experienced in coding in the real world.

If you’re looking for a way to challenge your child, help prepare them for the future, and introduce them to new friends, then CodeREV Kids is a great choice. We offer a host of programs from Minecraft maneuvering to structured coding classes and even classes that allow your child to work at their own pace. We’ve done everything we can to ensure that all students can find the perfect balance between being challenged and feeling confident.

 

Could Your School Benefit From STEAM School Services?

At CodeREV Kids, we’ve seen kids from all backgrounds, of all ages, and all levels of experience benefit from our unique STEAM curriculum. We are proud of the after-school classes we offer, the summer coding camps, and the other ways we interact with our students, but that’s not all – we’re also bringing our program to schools around the country.

Which STEAM school service will work best for your school?

There are a few different ways you can take advantage of our program: You can let us come to your and teach onsite at your school or you can use our program yourselves at our school – with our support. If either of these options are interesting to you, then we recommend you reach out to us right away to find out how our customized curriculum could work for your school. Otherwise, keep reading to get more details.

We can teach our curriculum at your school

The first option is to have our tech teachers come onsite at your school and teach our programs directly to your kids. Generally, this is done on a weekly basis though we can customize a program based on your unique needs. One of our experienced instructors can teach the program to your students or they can work alongside the instructor of your computer lab.

We can offer the support you need to teach our curriculum

It’s often the case that schools simply want to license our curriculum and get the training they need to teach our program to their kids during the school day. Remember that our program is truly ground breaking, and when your own teachers are trained on how to follow it, you can teach it for years to come.

Depending on your preferences and needs, there are a few ways we can accomplish this goal. We can work with your school on a subscription basis wherein we license our program and curriculum, or we can offer professional development training so that your instructors get the details on how to handle a wide range of our programs.

No matter which option you choose, you can count on many different options that can be seamlessly integrated into your current classes. One of our many goals it to ensure that the CodeREV Kids program is as customizable and scalable as possible. Reach out to us
today for your own consultation and find out how our programs could work with your school.

Have You Thought About Your Kids Summer Schedule Yet?

It may seem as though the year has just begun, but the truth is that summer is just a few months away. Have you thought about how you’ll ensure your kid keeps up with their school work over the summer and continues to grow? If you’re like many parents, you want a way for your child to continue to learn but you also want them to enjoy their summer. Enter CodeREV Kids summer coding camps.  

There’s a camp to meet virtually need

There are a number of different summer camps available, some of which are all day and others are just half a day. Some are a week long and others are longer. The purpose of the curriculum at CodeREV Kids is certainly to teach your kids while ensuring they’re having a blast, but we also work hard to make sure that our spring and summer tech camps meet a wide variety of needs.

Check out an example daily schedule and you’ll see that there’s lots of fun to be had

The daily schedule for the particular camp your child signs up for will vary but today we wanted to share an example of a daily schedule. This will give you an idea of what you might expect.

  • 9:00: Game activities and group check-in
  • 9:15: First create period
  • 10:30: Morning snack and an activity break
  • 10:45: Second create period
  • 12:00: Lunch
  • 12:20: Outdoor recreation
  • 1:00: Third create period
  • 2:00: Meet and offer direction
  • 2:30: Snack
  • 2:45: Fourth create period
  • 3:30: Afternoon snack and break
  • 4:00: Pair up and share the work done

The specific activities that your child will take part in during the create periods will vary based on the type of camp they sign up for. Younger kids or those who don’t have a lot of tech experience may start with a camp that offers lots of direction. Older kids who are more experienced may work at their own pace on projects selected by them and supervised by our staff.

The bottom line is that it’s all up to you

Whether you choose to send your kid to us all day or just half a day, it’s up to you. What classes they sign up for and what they work on, it’s all up to you. We provide the expert guidance and award-winning curriculum but at end of the day – and the start of it – it’s really all about what will work best for your kid.