Creative coding in Python

Abstract: Through the lens of the work we’re doing at imagiLabs, I will present an approach of teaching coding to children and teenagers in a way that engages girls in particular. I will explain how computer science and Python basics that are normally taught as part of introductory computer science classes can be combined with creativity, self-expression, and a community in order to create a welcoming environment and an intriguing coding experience. I will show how we follow the constructionist and constructivist theories in education, in which discovery learning, “building” knowledge, personal exploration, and relevant learning are instrumental. I will discuss how at imagiLabs we have developed a curriculum around these principles and the findings of our own user-centered research. Finally, I will show some of our Creative coding in Python activities in action. Come ready to get creative, get inspired, and learn how you can express yourself through code!