In 2025, WI DPI released new Computer Science Standards, with a stated goal that “All students are introduced to fundamental CS ideas starting in elementary school, with opportunities to explore problem solving, computational thinking, and ethical technology use through integrated and interdisciplinary learning.” Participants will be introduced to some introductory computer science concepts and use a new tool that can be used to introduce computer science and creative computing across subject areas. While, this workshop will focus on an elementary arts & ELA connection, the practices and tools can be used across contexts to create models, digital stories, games, or interactive art.
During the workshop we will create collage portraits inspired by children’s author Hanoch Piven. Then we will then animate the portraits using Octostudio, a block-based coding app. The projects will be saved as animated GIFs which can quickly be shared with family and friends. This creative coding workshop is based on work from the MIT Media Lab and the Exploratorium and uses physical (craft and making supplies) and digital (block-based coding and cameras) materials to try new ideas, iterate, and develop as creative thinkers.
Participants will need a personal phone, tablet, or Chromebook with the ability to install apps to use during this workshop. Participants without access to a device may opt to work with a partner. Octostudio was developed by the same team who developed the Scratch programming platform and is available for free on iOS and Android devices.
In this session, you will:
- Learn basic computer science concepts
- Gain experience with a low floor, free coding tool
- Try an activity that is easy to adapt and replicate in various learning contexts
