Teaching Python

Tips for Creating a Positive Learning Space (for Coding): A Two Part Series

December 3rd, 2023
By Kelly Paredes
active learning strategies, classroom environment, classroom management, coding education, computer science, educational design, educational research, learning spaces, student engagement, teacher resources, teaching

This is a two-part series, that focuses on the importance of environmental and cognitive factors in enhancing computer science learning. The first part of the series emphasizes the role of environmental comfort in the coding classroom, offering practical tips on creating conducive learning spaces through elements like comfortable seating, controlled acoustics, and mindful classroom culture. The article effectively combines research with actionable advice, aiming to foster better engagement and learning efficiency in coding education.

Live Stream with PyCharm Edu on May 20th

May 17th, 2021
By Sean Tibor
idesesries, livestream, pycharm, python, teaching

Teaching Python will live stream Episode 69 with PyCharm EDU on Thursday May 20 via YouTube, Twitch, and Facebook Live!

Active Learning Code-Alongs

February 24th, 2021
By Kelly Paredes
active learning, demonstrations, hook, learning strategies, peer instruction, teaching

So how can Computer Science teachers change necessary code-along sessions into highly engaged active learning experiences?

Three Learning Theories to Guarantee "The Click"

December 28th, 2020
By Kelly Paredes
bjork, desired difficulties, interleaving, learning strategies, learning theories, learninghowtolearn, mental imagery, mental images, repetition, spacing, teaching

Many learning theories have proven to help learn how to learn. Using a combination of them throughout a course can help to improve click moments for all students.

The Art of Perfecting

December 21st, 2020
By Kelly Paredes
big idea, computer science, curriculum, curriculum review, feedback, learning, learning outcomes, personal learning community, pln, reflection, review, sageonthestage, teaching, teaching python

Reflection regarding curriculum design and learning outcomes should always be at the heart of curriculum planning. Becoming part of the "quality culture" where improvement is the only option, feedback is critical, and alignment to standards and goals are a significant focus is a full-time endeavor.

The Metacognitive Process of Learning: An Intro to a Three Part Series

October 13th, 2020
By Kelly Paredes
learning, python, teaching

Doing what you know, knowing what you learned, understanding what you want to learn more of… The Metacognitive Process of Learning.

This is the intro to a three-part blog.

“Learning is finding out what you already know. Doing is demonstrating that you know it. Teaching is reminding others that they know just as well as you. You are all learners, doers, teachers.”
― Richard Bach,

You might be teaching a 6th grader...

September 11th, 2020
By Kelly Paredes
6th grade, 6th graders, classroom stories., coding education, computer literacy, humorous anecdotes, middle school, python, student experiences, teaching, teaching challenges, tech education

This article humorously chronicles the unique challenges and amusing situations faced when teaching 6th graders how to code, drawing parallels with everyday life scenarios. It emphasizes the rewarding experience of guiding young minds, despite the unexpected hurdles that emerge due to their limited exposure to computer operations.

Five Tips for Teaching Python When You Know Nothing About Python

November 10th, 2019
By Kelly Paredes
howto, learning, python, teaching, tips

Although I didn't consider myself a "real coder" when I first started learning Python a year and a half ago, it's been an amazing learning journey to teach it to hundreds of students and talk about it with other teachers. Here are 5 tips for learning how to teach Python when you know nothing about it.