Computer science (CS) sometimes gets a bad rap as dry, isolated and uninteresting work — the pursuit of analytically minded techies working alone. In reality, programming is deeply creative and enables artists of all types to discover new ways to express themselves. In this book, you’ll explore how to apply computation to stretch the possibilities in many art forms, as well as how to pave the way for entirely new ones. By approaching programming tools as artistic media, you’ll connect the dots between programming, creativity and artistic expression. Along the way, you’ll learn from a diverse set of computational artists and teachers who are using technology to push the bounds of traditional artistic media.

Coding has become an essential skill for finding solutions to everyday problems, while computational thinking (CT) teaches reasoning and creativity, and offers an innovative approach to demonstrating content knowledge and seeing mathematical processes in action. The book No Fear Coding introduced many K-5 educators to ways to bring coding into their curriculum by embedding CT skills into activities for different content areas. The new, expanded edition of this popular book features updated tools and resources, with more discussion about the features of each resource and the concepts each one can teach. It also incorporates the latest research on CT and deepens coverage of the ISTE Standards for Students.

Rev Up Robotics takes a cross-curricular approach, showing educators how to begin incorporating robotics into their content area lessons and in conjunction with other subjects. You’ll get an overview of standards-based skills that can be covered in English language arts, math, science, social studies and robotics electives. You’ll also find tips for selecting the robot that works for you and your students, and details on the functions of gears, motors and sensors. Also included is a deep dive into more advanced topics like the intersections of computer science, mechanical engineering and electrical engineering with robotics. Finally, you’ll find advice for getting students involved with competitive robotics, and case studies that offer empirical evidence for using robotics successfully in instruction.

How-to books related to computer science (CS) and teaching CS in K-12 environments are often either step-by-step guides or reference books, with little or no connection to pedagogy. By contrast, Coding + Math offers the analytical foundation teachers need to inform their practice, specifically in mathematics. Grounded in research, the book’s mini-lessons contrast visual-based coding with text-based programming and provide guidance in the selection and creation of lessons, instructional materials and CS platforms to help educators prepare students for the careers of the future. The book includes case studies in each chapter, with a research snapshot that contextualizes the key elements of the case study. It also offers strategies for “getting out the blocks” and introducing text-based CS when students are ready.

Access to high-quality computer science instruction has grown by leaps and bounds in recent years. Thanks to this movement, more students start middle school with some foundational knowledge of computer science and coding. This new set of creative skills empowers students to express themselves in powerful ways, but students still need opportunities and support to develop and hone those skills. Creative Coding provides the resources teachers need to help their students do just that. This book also includes lessons and projects to help students apply computational thinking and coding skills in core academic classes, and examples from classroom teachers in different content areas to support student learning.