The Coder Dojo is about to launch its second season of training the community’s children in computer coding. The Dojo is a nationally connected and locally developed open source computer coding program enabling elementary, middle and high school students from the region to receive code training appropriate to their age, in a college environment. This free program hopes to ignite interest early on in the student’s education around computer science and technology, particularly with girls and underrepresented youth.
“The Dojo gives kids from all walks of life the opportunity to engage and have fun, while increasing their skills in computer coding and cutting edge technology,” says Deron Fort, director of High School Connections at Lane Community College.
Coder Dojo sessions are guided by Vallie Majors, a Lane instructional specialist with expertise in computer science; owners of local tech firms such as Code Chops and Lunar Logic; and individuals who work in the technology sector and volunteer to teach courses. Workshops will continue to be offered in state-of-the-art classroom space at Lane’s Downtown Campus.
“Today’s kids will soon be in the labor force, and the Dojo helps to build interest and skills in our growing tech sector. And because it’s free for all kids, families with limited resources can expand their kids’ computer science education,” notes Anne Fifield, City of Eugene economic development planner.
Upcoming sessions include:
• Lego© Motors and Mechanisms (ages 6-11)
• Come Learn Linux (ages 12+)
• Intro to Game Development in C# (ages 12+)
To receive more information and sign up, visit the Eugene Region Coder Dojo MeetUp site: http://www.meetup.com/Eugene-Region-CoderDojo-Hub/
The Coder Dojo project was awarded $25,000 through a City of Eugene Telecommunication Grant for the 2015-2016 school year. The project is actively seeking support from corporate and community sponsorships to continue offering these exciting educational opportunities into the future. All interested persons should contact the Lane Community College Foundation, (541) 463-5135.
The Dojo launched in fall 2014 as a pilot project between Lane Community College, the City of Eugene, and Eugene School District 4J, with significant volunteer support from local computer science industry experts and the University of Oregon.
Eugene’s Coder Dojo Team Project was named the Community Broadband Digital Equity Project of the Year for 2014-15 by the National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors (NATOA) board of directors.