As a Regional Partner for Code.org, the Learning Technology Center facilitates professional learning programs for current and future computer science educators. Through scholarships, these programs are available little-to-no cost so that Illinois educators and their districts can develop the capacity and expertise needed to operate an enriching computer science curriculum.
Designed to be fun and engaging, Code.org’s progression of Computer Science Fundamentals blends online and “unplugged” non-computer activities to teach students computational thinking, problem solving, programming concepts and digital citizenship.
Learn more about CS Fundamentals from Code.org.
Computer Science Discoveries is an introductory course that empowers students to engage with computer science as a medium for creativity, communication, problem solving, and fun!
Learn more about CS Discoveries at Code.org.
Computer Science Principles covers many topics including the Internet, Big Data and Privacy, and Programming and Algorithms. The curriculum is flexible to be taught as an AP or non-AP course.
Learn more about CS Principles at Code.org.
Computer Science A invites students to learn programming using Java and can be taken after completing an introductory course such as CS Principles or CS Discoveries.
Learn more about CS A at Code.org.
In partnership with Code.org, the LTC provides optional professional learning opportunities to support new and experienced computer science educators as they adopt the Code.org curriculum.
Participants receive a hands-on intro to computer science, pedagogy, overviews of the Code.org online curriculum and teacher dashboard, as well as strategies for teaching “unplugged” classroom activities. At the end of the workshop, teachers will have:
Attendee: K-5 Computer Science Teacher, Media/Library Specialist, General Education classroom teacher
Workshop Length: 1 Day
Cost: Free or low-cost
Participation in this year-long program includes teaching materials, workshop supplies, nine days of professional development, and meals during workshops. Professional learning will occur during a week in the summer and four follow-up days throughout the school year. Additional travel costs are not covered and are the responsibility of the school or district.
Attendee: New computer science teacher
Workshop Length: A year long program includes a one week summer workshop, 4 days of follow up workshops and online support.
Registration Process: Attendees must apply to be part of the CS Discoveries cohort. Application details are available on the links below.
Fee: $1200 per teacher.
Scholarships: Scholarships are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and will be awarded based on information provided on the application. To attend the program at no cost, attendees must meet ONE of the following criteria:
Registration Process: Attendees must apply to be part of the CS Principles cohort. Application details are available on the links below.
Participation in this year-long program includes teaching materials, workshop supplies, 5 days of professional development during the summer, virtual meetings during the school year, a two-day capstone workshop the following summer, and meals during workshops. Additional travel costs are not covered and are the responsibility of the school or district.
Attendee: Current computer science teachers looking to prepare students for the AP Computer Science exam.
Workshop Length: A year long program includes a one week summer workshop, 8 monthly virtual follow-up meetings throughout the school year, a two-day capstone workshop during the following summer, and online support.
Registration Process: Attendees must apply to be part of the Computer Science A cohort. Application details are available on the links below.
Fee: $1400 per teacher.
The LTC partners with National Louis University’s National College of Education and Code.org to provide CS Discoveries and CS Principles participants the opportunity to earn graduate credit for their work. To become eligible for this transferable credit, participants must:
Participants that complete the above requirements will earn one (1) Semester Hour (SH) of graduate-level course credit. Participants can use their 1 SH of credit toward advancing their career prospects or earning NLU’s Masters of Education (Learning Sciences Education or Curriculum & Instruction Advanced Professional Specialization) degree.
The National College of Education (NCE) is the largest and oldest of the colleges that form National Louis University. For more than 130 years, they have been a pioneering and innovative force in new teacher preparation, educator advancement, and educational leadership. Their programs prepare educators to make a difference in schools and in the lives of students.
The National College of Education’s mission is excellence in teaching, scholarship, service, and professional development. Recognizing the importance of life-long learning in a diverse, rapidly changing global society, NCE is committed to developing and empowering all learners – including those currently serving in the field.
Sarah leads computer science and STEM initiatives, manages partnerships with state and national organizations, and elevates the LTC’s role as a thought leader in the K-12 computer science space.
