In this interview with Phil Bagge, we discuss the rise of CS in UK curricula, the evolution of Phil’s pedagogical approach, how time constraints impact pedagogical approaches, not letting the loudest voices drive instruction, how research informs Phil’s approach for working with teachers new to CS, how to emphasize student agency in teacher professional development, and much more.

Click here for this episode’s show notes.

How to Get Started with Computer Science Education

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00:00 Intro

00:51 Phil introducing himself

01:38 How Phil started teaching computer science

05:35 How CS went from a small number of classrooms to a national movement

08:16 How Phil's pedagogy and philosophy changed over time

17:36 What Phil wishes there was more research on

20:44 What does CS look like right now and would Phil do with more time?

25:28 What about integrating CS?

31:10 Phil's approach to professional development

36:02 Teaching to encourage agency

38:34 A critique of computational thinking

40:19 What prevents teachers from effectively teaching computer science?

43:50 If Phil could wave a magic wand...

44:44 Thoughts on transitioning from block-based to text-based coding

47:44 How Phil iterates on his abilities as an educator

49:38 How a deeper understanding of CS informs pedagogy with inexperienced students

53:20 How Phil prevents burnout

56:41 How educators have tried to improve equity and inclusion in CS

01:00:27 What's something Phil could use some help with from a listener?

01:01:42 What Phil wishes there was more of

01:04:34 How to connect with Phil

01:05:08 Outro