10 Ways to Teach Coding to Today's Students

Cool Cat Teacher Talk

Today, we’re exploring one of the most exciting and relevant topics in education—teaching kids to code. Featuring insights from leading computer science educators, this episode provides actionable strategies, tools, and ideas to make coding education engaging for all ages.

Featured Guests

This episode showcases insights and expertise from these amazing educators and leaders put together with highlights from their interviews that combine to add meaning to the topic of coding. If you want an overview on this topic, watch the whole show. If you want to dig deeper into one of the full interviews excerpted in the show, visit one below.

• Felinne Hermans: Discover the Hedy programming language, a free tool accessible in 50 languages. Learn more at www.coolcatteacher.com/e847
• Dr. Marina Umaschi Bers: Learn seven key strategies for introducing coding in early childhood. Visit www.coolcatteacher.com/e202
• Aditya Batura: Explore simple steps for teaching coding, including unplugged activities. Check it out at www.coolcatteacher.com/e262
• Doug Bergman: Gain insight into trends like AI, cybersecurity, and computational thinking. Full episode at www.coolcatteacher.com/e433
• Angela Cleveland: Learn how school counselors are helping more girls pursue careers in computer science. Visit www.coolcatteacher.com/e254
• Omar Shepherd: Find out how California is advancing computer science teaching. Learn more at www.coolcatteacher.com/e860
• Alfred Thompson: Discover practical teaching tips for computer science educators. See the episode at www.coolcatteacher.com/e182
• Vicki Davis: Explore 12 creative ways to teach coding during the Hour of Code. Full episode at www.coolcatteacher.com/e871

Episode Highlights 1. Coding Across the Curriculum

Explore how coding can integrate with art, science, and math, creating interdisciplinary learning experiences that engage students.

2. Unplugged Coding Activities

Not all coding lessons need screens! Activities like “Code with Hot Wheels” and outdoor chalk grids are great for teaching sequencing and logic to young learners.

3. Early Childhood Coding

Dr. Marina Umaschi Bers shares seven practical strategies for introducing coding concepts to preschoolers, helping to build problem-solving and logical thinking skills early on.

4. Promoting Diversity in Tech

Angela Cleveland highlights ways to close the gender gap in computer science, from building awareness to creating opportunities for girls and underrepresented groups.

5. Emerging Trends in Computer Science

Doug Bergman discusses how schools can prepare students for the future of coding, with a focus on AI, cybersecurity, and computational thinking.