Spark Student Engagement with Hour of Code

This article was contributed by guest authors Amy Rolain, Teacher Librarian, and Sarah Dowdy, STEM Teacher.

Recent research indicates that teaching elementary students how to code leads to improvements in engagement, academics, and behavior (Wise). The Hour of Code began in 2013 as a one-hour introduction to computer science designed to demystify coding and demonstrate that everyone can learn the basics of computer science. It has since become a global movement, reaching tens of millions of students in 180+ countries (Code.org). Hour of Code is traditionally hosted during Computer Science Education Week (this year, December 6–12, 2021) in recognition of the birthday of computing pioneer Admiral Grace Murray Hopper (born December 9, 1906).

If you’re thinking about hosting an Hour of Code in your classroom, consider chatting with your building’s SPARK team—also known as your friendly Teacher Librarian and STEM teacher. This year, all eight elementary schools are implementing the SPARK program, which includes four modes of instructional delivery. During fixed instruction, Library or STEM curriculum is taught within the traditional Library specials schedule. A flexible schedule is also utilized to provide instruction, integrating STEM and Library curriculum into core literacy, science, or social studies time. STEM teachers continue to provide week-long bootcamps where each grade level meets for a number of consecutive days to complete a STEM module. Finally, Library and STEM teachers will plan and implement collaborative lessons throughout the year which may include the Hour of Code in early December.

If you’d like to explore coding with your students, the best place to start is hourofcode.com/us/learn. Choose your grade level and select iPad under Classroom Technology (on the left side) to ensure that coding options will work on student iPads. While no login or pre-registration is necessary, be aware that some apps may not be available in Barrington 220's Self Service and/or initial setup may be required. Try an activity as a class or provide a few choices for students and encourage them to work collaboratively. If your students need a screen break, select "No Computers or Devices" on the left side and explore some unplugged coding.

Of course, there’s no better way to kick off the Hour of Code than with a good book. Click here for a list of techy titles for primary and intermediate students. Tap on each book cover to find out more about the variety of code-friendly fiction and nonfiction books available. If you’re looking for additional ways to peak your students' interest in coding, don’t hesitate to contact your building's eager SPARK team. We're looking forward to partnering with you to nurture curious information seekers, creative collaborators, innovative problem solvers, and responsible, empathetic digital and global citizens.

Works Cited

“What is the Hour of Code?” Code.org, 21 Sept. 2021, support.code.org/hc/en-us/articles/203524386-What-is-the-Hour-of-Code.

Wise, Rachel. “The Benefits of Teaching Coding to Elementary School Students.” Education and Behavior, 3 June 2020, educationandbehavior.com/benefits-of-teaching-coding-to-elementary-school-children.