Technology plays an important role in education, but teachers don't always have the time to learn how to use it. When I returned to teaching four years ago, one of my first initiatives was to bring technology into the classroom where it belongs. Technology is second nature to today’s students, and since they are immersed in it every day outside of the classroom, it is only natural to use those skills inside the classroom too.

Hingham High Does it’s Own Hour of Code

That’s why we spearheaded Hingham High School’s participation in “The Hour of Code” last year. This global initiative features a one-hour introduction to computer science, designed to demystify code and show that anybody can learn the basics. Over 15 million students across the world took part last year, spanning 180+ countries and 30 different languages.

During the week of December 8-12, 2015, Hingham High School participated in a school wide coding event where more than 1,000 students participated in the Hour of Code. This was the largest learning event in Hingham’s history, with great student engagement and excitement to learn!

Inspiring Tomorrow’s Computer Scientists
Hingham High students who participated in last year’s event were not only developing crucial technology skills, but were also forming skills they need to remain competitive in the ever-expanding digital world, including key capabilities in planning and collaboration. By starting coding early, students obtain a solid foundation for success across 21st-century career paths. Based on our experience, I encourage other teachers reading this post to consider integrating a program like The Hour of Code to help meet in-school technology needs while turning your students of today into the leaders of tomorrow.  Code.org provides all of the resources needed to hold an event.

We Did It. You Can Do It.
Organizing hundreds of students for a one-hour coding event may sound intimidating, but it’s actually extremely easy! If you’re thinking of hosting your own event here are just a few easy ways to get started

• Check out the “How to Guide” on the Hour of Code website.
• Watch the quick 3-minute video that gives you step-by-step instructions on how to run an Hour of Code event.
• You can select from 20 different tutorials, each introducing computer science in its own way for all students, K-12. All tutorials require minimal prep time and are self-guided -- allowing students to work at their own pace and skill level.

This year, the Hour of Code seeks the even more ambitious goal of 100 million students participating worldwide. Let’s help them make that goal. I’m asking you to join in for the Hour of Code. Anybody can learn!

Get Started Today on Your Own Event Today
So what are you waiting for? Get the word out. Host an event. Ask a local school to sign up. Or try the Hour of Code yourself -- everyone can benefit from learning the basics.This is the chance to change the future of education in your community. Ensure that your students are on the forefront of creating the technology of the future -- not just consuming it.

If you would like to read the blogs the students have created or just get more information about the program, please visit our site, http://hinghamtechsquad.weebly.com/.