Workshop Overview

In this professional development workshop we will explore computational tinkering — a playful, collaborative, and open-ended approach to exploring digital tools including Scratch visual programming, BBC Micro:bit and Chibitronics Chibichip.

As part of the three-day atelier, educators will experience several hands-on computational tinkering activities as learners, construct their own workshop elements and brainstorm strategies to integrate new technologies to art, science, coding and making programs.

More info about the workshop here: https://wonderfulidea.co/creative-coding-pd

SPECIAL THEME “Crafting Computational IDENTITIES” with Leah Buechley

This workshop will introduce different ways that youth can integrate computation with craft, art, and design. These practices support personal expression and explorations of identity and culture through computing. We will examine research on the connections between art, culture, and engagement in education. We will play with programming, fabricating, and making in different media, including clay, paper, and textiles. And, we will discuss connections between culture, technology, and class--looking for new beautiful and personally meaningful pathways into STEM.

Dates and Location

The workshop will take place at Wonderful Idea Company’s new home at 1808 Fifth St. in Berkeley CA

The program will run from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on May 2nd, 3rd and 4th with a mix of hands-on sessions, reflective discussions, practical brainstorming sessions, food, and fun. We’ll host an informal reception on February 15th from 5:30-7:30 to with light snacks and refreshments

Fees and Registration Details

The workshop fee will be $800 per participant which includes:

• Three full days of hands-on interactive workshops and reflective discussions facilitated by tinkering and computational thinking experts

• A kit of parts designed for continued creative coding explorations to take home (~$75 of materials)

• Breakfast, lunch, and healthy snacks each day

This cost does not include travel, accommodations, and meals outside of the workshop. Groups of three or more participants from the same institution are eligible for a discounted registration fee.

The workshop is offered at a substantial discount for a limited number of teachers from Title I Schools. If this applies to you, please inquire for more details to ryan@wonderfulidea.co