A new modular, open-access curriculum that is part of the LIVE (Learning Incubator: a Vanderbilt Endeavor) initiative is expanding the ability of high school teachers to use technology in learning. Programming for a Networked World offers an engaging introduction to advanced topics that are currently accessible only to computer science majors in college.
The beginner-level MOOC (massive open online course) on Coursera takes about 24 hours to complete and offers a flexible schedule. Modules include the fundamentals of programming concepts, the basics of distributed computing and computer networking, and problem solving using NetsBlox, a successful block-based educational programming environment previously developed at Vanderbilt. Although designed for teachers, it is accessible to students who want to learn block-based programming.
Programming for a Networked World was developed by Clifford B. Anderson, chief digital strategist at the Jean and Alexander Heard Libraries, Computer Science Professor Akos Ledeczi, and Brian Broll, PhD’18, a research scientist at Vanderbilt’s Institute for Software Integrated Systems and the chief architect of NetsBlox. They are also the course instructors.