Microsoft is committed to empowering every teacher and student on the planet to achieve more. And while there is great potential for technology to help address society’s biggest issues, the pace of this change is also raising new challenges and intensifying existing inequities in our communities. As a result, it’s critical that we apply technology and innovations to address these concerns. We support computer science (CS) education efforts which equip learners to use computational thinking and creativity to build the next generation of inclusive computing solutions.
Microsoft is excited to participate in the Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA) virtual conference taking place July 11-13. Microsoft is a longtime supporter of CSTA and their work to grow a vibrant community of K-12 computer science educators, ensuring every student has an opportunity to learn computing skills.
Microsoft’s continued investment in computer science education is reflected in a new resource guide, listing 75+ different Microsoft products and initiatives, including:
- Microsoft MakeCode is an online platform that brings computer science to life with micro:bit physical computing and game-based learning with arcade-style games to engage every student.
- Minecraft showcases a new K-12 Cyberskilling Series, AI for Earth collection, and engages students with team-based coding Artemis Missions in partnership with NASA.
- The TEALS Program helps teachers learn to teach CS by pairing them with industry volunteers and proven curricula.
One of our latest resources, Visual Studio Code for Education, is a new, public preview offering we’re launching at CSTA23. The result of a collaboration between Microsoft and a dedicated advisory group of passionate educators, VS Code for Education was created to support students looking to transition from using beginner-friendly platforms like MakeCode, to industry-grade code editors like Visual Studio Code. Consider piloting VS Code for Education during the public preview to share your feedback and inform future product direction.
For those attending the conference, we look forward to connecting with each of you!
Where to Find Us
Visit the Microsoft Booth to enter the sweepstakes and win prizes!
Explore our booth to enter a sweepstakes to win a prize and attend our sessions to learn more.
Tuesday, July 11, 2023, 11:55 AM-12:40 PM EST
Empowering you with industry volunteers and resources
The TEALS (Technology Education and Learning Support) Program helps schools build and grow sustainable computer science programs by pairing trained industry volunteers with classroom teachers to team-teach computer science. Join to find out how your school can apply for support in the 2024-25 school year! Additionally, explore resources such as our new Computer Science Education Resource Guide which details 75+ Microsoft initiatives that can help you establish a CS program, set up a classroom, support students, and extend student learning.
Presenter: Patrick O’Steen, TEALS Program Lead at Microsoft Philanthropies
Tuesday, July 11, 2023, 4:15-5:00 PM EST
CS Afterschool
Whether you cover computer science with your group in every session or have never spoken the word "algorithm," this workshop will show you how to get started using a series of activities that are truly STEAM oriented. All that is needed to create a carnival with your participants is a computer and access to traditional household materials. If you have the budget for extra physical computing supplies (like a micro:bit and lights) then the sky is the limit!
This 45-minute workshop will introduce you to MakeCode Arcade and our new Code a Carnival curriculum set. In less than an hour, you'll have a complete blueprint for a modular series of carnival activities that can be condensed into a single hour or stretched to 16+ sessions.
Presenter(s): Kiki Prottsman, Director of Education at Microsoft MakeCode
Wednesday, July 12, 2023, 1:50-2:10 PM EST
Get started coding in Minecraft Education with MakeCode
Anyone can learn to code with Minecraft! Minecraft and Microsoft MakeCode bring computer science to life for all students with fun projects, immediate results, and both block and text editors for learners at different levels.
Presenters: Laylah Bulman, Senior Program Manager for Minecraft Education and Jacqueline Russell, Product Manager for Microsoft MakeCode
Thursday, July 13, 2023, 11:00-11:45 AM EST
Equity in Game Development
Games are one of the most engaging ways to teach computer science. So, how can we make game development and game-based learning not only engaging, but equitable for all students? Join us as we talk about some of the ways in which Microsoft is working to ensure every student has the opportunity to explore career opportunities and gain CS skills via games.
Presenters: Laylah Bulman, Senior Program Manager for Minecraft Education and Jacqueline Russell, Product Manager for Microsoft MakeCode
Thursday, July 13, 2023, 11:55 AM-12:40 PM EST
Engaging Students in Cyberskilling
Dive into the interactive and captivating world of Minecraft and explore the new K-12 Cyberskilling pathway. Explore inclusive learning opportunities that spark students' curiosity in cybersecurity and other computer science careers. Equip your students with crucial cyber skills as they navigate cryptic cybers, defend against malware mayhem and set them on the path towards high-demand professional fields.
Presenter: Laylah Bulman, Senior Program Manager for Minecraft Education