I wanted to share info on two upcoming international tech events. They are actually international efforts to encourage local events – by providing an excuse, a template and promotion. It might be too late to organize a local CodeDay – but it’s probably not too late to consider checking out the event in the Twin Cities to figure out if a local version makes sense next year.

CodeDay Nov 7-8

CodeDay is a series of student programming events held across the world. It’s the world’s largest series of educational programming marathons, in addition to being one of the most effective methods of education.

There are 22 cities participating, including St Paul. Sounds a lot like a hackfest (gather, collaboration, build an app or game) although the organizers differentiate it by saying there’s no competition.

Hour of Code Dec 7-13

The Hour of Code is a global movement reaching tens of millions of students in 180+ countries. Anyone, anywhere can organize an Hour of Code event. One-hour tutorials are available in over 40 languages. No experience needed. Ages 4 to 104.

This is much easier to fit in. They have lots of curricular options on the website. Last year I downloaded a program for my 10 year old and she “coded” for days with it. The program used a game involving Elsa from Frozen to get my kids to create code to help her skate a figure 8. If you know a teacher, you might pass it on. Or if you know a kid you might take on the onus yourself. It’s easy! And it’ll help a kid learn if they like coding.