Press release: University of West Florida Innovation Institute is hosting a CoderDojo programming class for kids, ages 7-17, to engage in a fun learning experience, where they will learn how to code and develop apps, websites, games and more.
CoderDojo is an open source, volunteer-led movement that establishes free, non-profit coding clubs and sessions for elementary, middle and high school students. To date, there are over 440 clubs in 43 countries and counting. Pensacola’s dojo is the first in northern Florida, with other clubs in Tampa and Miami. The UWF Innovation Institute program has the support of community partners, including AppRiver, Beck Properties, Silver Bullet and GBSI, to act as faculty and mentors for students.
“Championing and leading the CoderDojo Pensacola club for the second year allows UWF Innovation Institute to provide a free experience for young people in this community to learn to program and write code,†said Dr. Dave Dawson of the Innovation Institute. “Our ninjas don’t just learn how to program a computer. They learn critical thinking skills and teamwork, which is very important for future careers in information technology and cybersecurity. Our goal is to spark interest and engage with young students who otherwise may not have this opportunity.â€
The CoderDojo initiative is part of the Innovation Institute’s efforts to engage students in immersive science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM, experiences. By involving them in STEM education early on, the Institute hopes to build a solid pipeline from elementary to college and prepare them for future careers in high demand fields, such as IT and cybersecurity.
CoderDojo programming classes will be held at the Innovation Institute, located at 321 N. DeVilliers St. in downtown Pensacola, every Monday, beginning Sept. 21 through Dec. 14.
To register for classes, visit the CoderDojo Pensacola Facebook at facebook.com/coderdojopensacola. Classes are limited to 20 students and are open for registration after each class is completed. For additional information about the global CoderDojo movement, visit coderdojo.com
For additional information about the UWF Innovation Institute, visit uwf.edu/innovation.