Computer Science & STEM
Resources, professional learning, and support for fostering robust computer science and STEM programs and knowledgeable educators.
Building and supporting CS & STEM educators and innovative programs
Through our partnerships and connections to computer science (CS) educators across the state, we strive to make integrating CS and STEM learning and achieving standards-based compliance an empowering experience for all educators and school districts.
The Illinois State Board of Education defines computer science as the study of computers and algorithms, including their principles, hardware and software designs, implementation, and impact on society. Computer science does not include the study of everyday uses of computers and computer applications, such as keyboarding or accessing the internet. Notably, this is different from computer literacy, “one’s knowledge of and ability to use computers and related technologies efficiently and effectively. More specifically, [it] includes knowing what constitutes a computer, the uses and applications for computers, and the impact of computers on society.”
Related services, resources, events, and articles.
AI4K12
The initiative is developing (1) national guidelines for AI education for K-12, (2) an online, curated resource Directory to facilitate AI instruction, and (3) a community of practitioners, researchers, resource and tool developers focused on the AI for K-12 audience. Check out the following information to learn about this initiative.
Haiku
Haiku is a role play- game that teachers students skills needed for cybersecurity. Our platform has pre-designed “missions” that teach things like Linux, Intro. to Cybersecurity and Intro. to Networking. Our platform tool, Forge, allows you to build drag and drop learning pathways. Our platform takes your pathway and creates and entire story, roles and mission around your objectives. We also provide mission development as a service to customers.
Esports Program Checklist
Empower Your New Esports Team at your School with Our Comprehensive Checklist! Unveil the potential of your budding esports squad using this all-inclusive checklist. From recruitment and practice schedules to team branding, our checklist ensures you cover all the bases for a successful and thrilling esports journey in your school.
Creative Coding Workshop and Charm INCLUDED (Grades 3-5)
In this 3.5 hour workshop, you’ll learn about the research and pedagogy behind the importance of introducing real Python, one of the most popular and widely used coding languages, in Grades 3-5. Using a platform and curriculum designed to include and engage students who are often at risk of being left out of traditional approaches to coding education, you’ll walk away with resources and knowledge to begin teaching Python in your classroom in a creative and tangible way.
Creative Coding Workshop and Charm (Grades 6-8)
In this 3.5 hour workshop, you’ll learn about the research and pedagogy behind the importance of introducing real Python, one of the most popular and widely used coding languages, in Grades 6-8. Using a platform and curriculum designed to include and engage students who are often at risk of being left out of traditional approaches to coding education, you’ll walk away with resources and knowledge to begin teaching Python in your classroom in a creative and tangible way.
Navigating the Computer Literacy Standards
In this session, we’ll explore what computer literacy is, the K-12 Computer Literacy Knowledge and Skill Continuum, and how you can bring computer literacy into your classroom. We will explore how both new tools and some you may already know can be utilized to fulfill these standards.
CS & STEM Networking Meeting
Calling all K-12 computer science and STEM educators! Join your peers from across the state each month for an informative, engagement-rich networking meeting centered on topics that matter most to you.
Drones for Creativity and Computer Science
Discover what it takes to bring drones into the classroom as a part of this hands-on workshop. To begin, we’ll take to the skies as you learn to fly a drone manually as well as autonomously (via coding). You’ll then explore activities, curriculum, and tips for getting your students started on their first drone adventures.
3D Printing FUNdamentals – Hands-On
Join us for an informative, hands-on session where we’ll explore the basics of 3D printers and 3D printing. During this 6-hour workshop, we’ll dive deep into the fundamentals of 3D printing, including the software needed for successful printing, the best printer models for education, best practices for planning a 3D printing space, and some curriculum integration essentials. 3D printing has SO many real-world, practical applications and can be easily integrated at any grade level and across the curriculum. Come see how with one of Illinois’ educational 3D printing experts!
3D Printing for Educators
Whether you’re thinking of buying your first printer, or you have a few that are not being used to their full potential, this workshop will give you the foundation needed to implement 3D printing in your educational environment.
The Makerspace Starter Kit
Are you ready to get a makerspace or going at your school, but not quite sure where to start? Maybe you have a space already, but it’s due for a makeover. There are so many options out there, and technology is constantly changing. Where do you start?
CS & STEM Networking Meeting
Calling all K-12 computer science and STEM educators! Join your peers from across the state each month for an informative, engagement-rich networking meeting centered on topics that matter most to you.
Unpacking the New Illinois Computer Science Standards
Join us for this workshop, where we’ll open up the new K-12 Computer Science learning standards and break them into digestible and actionable segments.
Bring 3D Printing into your Classrooms
Innovative problem solvers are using 3D printing in every industry, from medicine to construction to space exploration. Teach your students to design for the future by adding 3D printing to your curriculum!
Illinois Education and Technology Conference 2024 (IETC)
Learn, collaborate, and connect with fellow edtech enthusiasts and leaders during a multi-day professional learning experience ideal for collaborating one-on-one with peers and forging meaningful connections.
Code.org Regional Partnership
Through our Code.org partnership, Illinois educators can obtain high-quality CS professional development and curricular resources – often for little-to-no cost. You can also develop the expertise needed make CS learning accessible at any grade level using their ever-growing library of projects and teaching tools.
More than two million teachers have brought CS learning to their classroom through Code.org. Learn more about how Code.org can help you and your district grow CS teaching capacity starting today.