This episode of CS4NE focuses on the Hour of Code and Computer Science Education Week. Hosts Guy Trainin and Kimberly Ingraham-Beck discuss the global impact of Hour of Code, a coding event designed to introduce students of all ages to computer science through fun, engaging activities. They are joined by Robert, an assistant professor at UNL, who shares insights into the university’s efforts to diversify the computer science field and how educators, students, and the community can get involved in events like Hour of Code to promote computer science education. The episode highlights the importance of early exposure to coding and encourages broader participation.

In this episode of "CS4NE - Computer Science for Nebraska," hosts Guy Trainin and Kimberly Ingraham-Beck discuss the benefits of using CodeHS for teaching computer science. After attending the ISTE and CSTA conferences, Kimberly shares insights from an interview with Steve Gardner, the Chief Revenue Officer of CodeHS. They explore CodeHS’s offerings, including their comprehensive K-12 curriculum, the alignment with Nebraska standards, and the flexibility of their platform, which allows for both free and paid versions. The hosts also dive into a hands-on demonstration of CodeHS, showcasing the platform's features, including cybersecurity, cryptography, and system administration modules, and the ability to assign courses to individual students based on their progress. This episode provides valuable insights for educators looking to enhance their computer science teaching with a flexible and responsive curriculum platform.

This episode of CS4NE features hosts Guy Trainin and Kimberly Ingraham-Beck speaking with Lisa Bohaty, a K–12 computer science teacher and board member of the Nebraska Educational Technology Association (NETA). Lisa shares her experience teaching computer science across grade levels and discusses the significance of both NETA’s upcoming conferences and their new initiatives, including a dedicated support group for computer science educators. She encourages teachers to overcome initial hesitations and embrace the collaborative and innovative spirit of technology-focused education through resources like NETA and CSTA, as well as the benefits of sharing learning with students.

n this episode of "CS4NE - Computer Science for Nebraska," hosts Guy Trainin and Kimberly Ingraham-Beck explore the offerings of Code.org, highlighting their extensive curriculum tailored for K-12 education. They discuss code.org’s free resources, professional development opportunities, and specific curriculum adaptations for Nebraska's educational standards. The episode includes an interview with Andy Teipen from Code.org, recorded at the ISTE conference, where they delve into unique features such as modular curriculum options, Music Lab, and LMS integrations. The hosts also showcase practical coding activities and emphasize the importance of accessible, high-quality computer science education for all students.

In this episode of "CS4NE - Computer Science for Nebraska," hosts Guy Trainin and Kimberly Ingraham-Beck interview Linda Schafer, a K-12 computer science teacher from Scribner-Snyder Community Schools. Linda shares her experience developing a robust computer science program in a small, rural district. She discusses how she gradually built her program over the years, integrating hands-on tools like robots and drones to engage students. Linda offers practical advice for teachers in small schools on how to start and grow a computer science curriculum, emphasizing the importance of starting small and building over time.

In this episode of "CS4NE - Computer Science for Nebraska," hosts Guy Trainin and Kimberly Ingraham-Beck interview Ian Kollipara, a graduate student at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Ian discusses his journey into computer science and his creation of "conneCTION," a website funded by the National Science Foundation. The site offers a free, password-protected collection of computer science teaching resources, allowing educators to create and share custom collections. Ian provides a demo of the website, highlighting its features and how it supports teachers in enhancing computer science education.

In this episode of "CS4NE - Computer Science for Nebraska," hosts Guy Trainin and Kimberly Ingraham-Beck are joined by Shaun Young from the Nebraska Department of Education. Shaun discusses the recent legislation mandating computer science education in Nebraska, detailing the requirements for K-12 schools and the upcoming graduation requirement for the class of 2028. The episode covers who can teach these courses, the flexibility in curriculum standards, and available funding for teacher training and resources. This episode provides essential information for educators navigating the new computer science requirements in Nebraska.

In the first episode of "CS4NE - Computer Science for Nebraska," hosts Guy Trainin and Kimberly Ingraham-Beck introduce the podcast, aimed at supporting computer science educators across Nebraska. They share their personal journeys into computer science, dispel myths about the field, and emphasize the importance of problem-solving and collaboration. The episode encourages teachers to reach out for support. "CS4NE" offers valuable insights and practical advice to help educators navigate and expand computer science education in their classrooms.