On Thursday, Google and U.S. Representative Tom Reed (R – NY23) paid a visit to Marcus Whitman Middle School to deliver the company’s Computer Science First Roadshow, a computer science education presentation developed by Google, to a group of over 80 students.
Google employees delivered the hour-long presentation, which focuses on teaching students both problem solving and technical coding skills through a series of interactive activities. They encouraged kids to develop an interest in computer science education by giving real-life examples of how coding and STEM education can lead to educational opportunities and exciting careers. Students were able to use proprietary Google devices and software, and worked on a few real time coding projects.
Tom Reed helped lead today’s activities. He kicked off the presentation by expressing the importance of learning about computer science at an early age, and helped kids build their own fun stories using Scratch, an introductory coding tool.
“We care about ensuring our kids have fair access to the resources they need to succeed in the workplace,” said Representative Reed. “With more than a million more open jobs then people looking for work we know developing the future of our workforce with essential skills, like STEM, is a number one priority to maintaining this booming economy our country is experiencing.”
“Kids are exposed to technology at such an early age, but don’t necessarily get to learn about why computer science should be an important part of their lives – both now and in the future,” said Alex Sanchez, a Google spokesperson. “We want the next generation of students to be able to create technology, not just consume it.”
The CS First Roadshow teaches students about the importance of STEM education and uses interactive activities to teach them coding basics.The goal of the presentation is to encourage students to develop an interest in computer science education and grow both their problem solving and technical coding skills. This roadshow is part of Grow with Google, a new initiative to provide Americans of all ages with the skills they need to prepare for work, find a job or grow their business.
You can find more information on how to get involved with CS First in your community by visiting https://www.cs-first.com.
This content is brought to you by the FingerLakes1.com Team. Support our mission by visiting www.patreon.com/fl1 or learn how you send us your local content here.