Scratch (http://scratch.mit.edu/) is a programming language and programming environment developed by the Lifelong Kindergarten Group at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Media Lab. It helps students explore important mathematical and computational ideas, while also learning to think creatively, reason systematically, and work collaboratively.
At Manukau Institute of Technology, we have been looking at ways of improving success in teaching programming and trying to recapture the fun and excitement of an earlier era. In semester 1, 2010, we chose Scratch as the language of instruction for the introductory programming course (PP490) in its Certificate in Information and Communications Technology (level 4) programme.
The workshop will cover the following:
• A hands-on introduction to the Scratch programming environment.
• A discussion of the experiences of using Scratch at Manukau Institute of Technology: what worked well, what did not, the lessons learned.
• A discussion of future use of Scratch at Manukau Institute of Technology and possible collaboration within the NACCQ community.
If you have been wondering how to engage your students in learning beginning programming in a new and effective way, this workshop may show you an idea that will actually work!
Afternoon: 3pm – 6pm