ClassX Video Lessons Youtube Channel Code.org Mark Zuckerberg on the chance to learn computer science
When I was in sixth grade, I got my first computer, and it opened up a whole new world of possibilities for me. Today, we live in an amazing time where even solving simple problems with technology can make a huge difference in the lives of millions of people. It’s really exciting to think about how much we can achieve with the power of computers.
I love taking walks around California because it’s such a beautiful place. During my walks, I often see kids riding their bikes. One day, a young boy started asking me questions like, “Hey, Mr. Zuckerberg! I want to learn how to program. What should I do?”
A few days later, he told me he got a developer kit and that his mom said he could start learning. He asked, “What’s the first thing I should do?” I suggested he begin with some basic programming exercises. This went on for weeks, with him asking questions and me giving advice. While I can’t say I taught him everything about programming, it felt great to know I was helping someone who might become a future engineer.
When I think about what schools will be teaching in the next 5, 10, or 15 years, I’m convinced that computer science, or at least basic programming, will be as essential as learning to read and write. In the future, we’ll probably wonder why it took us so long to realize how important these skills are.
Learning computer science is not just about becoming a programmer. It’s about understanding how technology works and how it can be used to solve problems. Whether you want to create video games, develop apps, or even design robots, computer science gives you the tools to bring your ideas to life.
Plus, having these skills can open up many career opportunities. Almost every industry today relies on technology, so knowing how to code can give you a big advantage in the job market.
If you’re interested in learning how to program, there are many resources available online. Websites like Codecademy, Khan Academy, and Scratch offer free courses that can help you get started. Remember, the key is to practice regularly and not be afraid to make mistakes. Every error is a chance to learn something new!
So, why not give it a try? You might discover a passion for technology that could lead to exciting opportunities in the future!
Start your journey into computer science by creating your own interactive stories and games using Scratch. Visit the Scratch website and follow a beginner tutorial to create a simple project. Share your creation with your classmates and discuss what you learned about programming logic.
Reach out to a family member, friend, or local professional who works in technology. Prepare a set of questions about their job, how they use computer science, and what advice they have for someone learning to code. Present your findings to the class and discuss the different career paths in technology.
Using a platform like Codecademy, follow a tutorial to code a basic game. Focus on understanding the structure of the code and how different elements interact. Once completed, play each other’s games and provide feedback on what you enjoyed and what could be improved.
Work in small groups to identify a simple problem in your school or community that could be solved with technology. Brainstorm and design a basic app or tool that addresses the issue. Present your idea to the class, explaining how computer science can be used to implement your solution.
Participate in a class debate on the importance of computer science in education. Research and prepare arguments for why programming should be a core subject in schools. Discuss how learning these skills can impact future careers and innovation. Reflect on the debate and write a short essay on your perspective.
Here’s a sanitized version of the transcript:
I got my first computer when I was in sixth grade, and it unlocked all these different possibilities. We live in a time now where, by solving relatively basic problems, you can improve millions of people’s lives, and it’s really inspiring. I enjoy going for walks around California; it’s beautiful. There were a few kids who would ride their bikes, and every day when I walked by, one guy would yell questions at me, like, “Hey, Mr. Zuckerberg! I want to learn how to program. What should I do?”
A few days later, I’d come back, and he would say, “I got the developer kit, and my mom says I can get started. So what’s the first thing I should do?” I’d tell him, “First, try to learn this,” and this would go on for weeks. I can’t say I taught him how to program, but it was really gratifying to know that, in some small way, I could help out in teaching the next generation of folks who are going to become engineers.
When I think about what we’re going to be teaching in schools 5, 10, or 15 years from now, I definitely believe that computer science, or at least basic programming, is going to be as important a skill as being able to do basic reading and writing. I think we’ll look back and wonder why it took us so long to get to that point.
Computer – An electronic device that can store, retrieve, and process data to perform various tasks. – Example sentence: “I used my computer to complete my homework and play games.”
Science – The study of the natural world through observation and experimentation, often applied in technology and computing. – Example sentence: “Computer science helps us understand how software and hardware work together.”
Programming – The process of writing instructions for a computer to perform specific tasks. – Example sentence: “We learned programming in class by creating a simple calculator application.”
Technology – The use of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, especially in industry and computing. – Example sentence: “Advancements in technology have made computers faster and more efficient.”
Skills – The abilities and expertise needed to perform tasks, such as coding or using software. – Example sentence: “Developing coding skills can help you create your own computer programs.”
Learn – To gain knowledge or understanding of a subject, such as how to code or use new software. – Example sentence: “I want to learn how to build my own website using HTML and CSS.”
Coding – The act of writing code in a programming language to create software or applications. – Example sentence: “Coding can be fun when you see your program come to life on the screen.”
Resources – Materials or tools that help you learn or complete tasks, like online tutorials or coding libraries. – Example sentence: “There are many online resources available to help beginners learn programming.”
Future – The time yet to come, often considered in terms of technological advancements and innovations. – Example sentence: “In the future, technology will continue to change the way we live and work.”
Engineer – A person who designs, builds, or maintains engines, machines, or structures, often using computer technology. – Example sentence: “A software engineer uses coding to develop new applications and systems.”
