Teaching Python

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• Episode 157: Episode # 157 Philip Guo: The Code Runs. But Do You Understand It? 30.05.2026 53นาที

  Kelly talks with Philip Guo, creator of Python Tutor, about how the tool helps students trace code and understand programming basics. They also discuss the challenges AI-generated code creates in the classroom and possible ways to support student learning. *Wins of the Week * Philip: Hiring a second undergraduate student for Python Tutor, including one focused on user experience research with K-12 teachers Kelly: Finishing a year of in-person teacher trainings and reflecting on how far the teachers have come *AI, Coding, and Classroom Understanding * Much of the conversation focuses on how AI-generated code affects student learning. Kelly describes using AI code with eighth graders and how difficult it can be for them to understand functions, parameters, returns, and other fundamentals when the code is generated all at once. Philip suggests that tools like Python Tutor may be useful for helping students trace code and understand what is happening behind the scenes. Python Tutor and Possible AI Features Philip explains that Python Tutor currently visualizes execution and has an AI chat feature that can answer questions about code and errors. They discuss possible future features, including simplified AI-generated examples, alternative execution views that show only the lines actually run, and more guided inline help tied to specific code or variables. Oral Explanations and Assessment Kelly describes using a Socratic-style code review with students, where they discuss code aloud in groups. They also talk about using spoken explanations or short oral assessments to check whether students can really explain what code is doing, rather than just copying or prompting AI-generated answers. Broader Research and “Beyond the Desk” Philip briefly discusses a new research direction with a PhD student focused on AI support for work beyond the desk, including physical and embodied tasks in science labs and fieldwork. He says this differs from desk-based AI work and involves activities that are harder for current AI systems to support. **Chapters **0:25 Python Tutor and AI Learning 1:55 Hiring Help for Python Tutor 4:07 Classroom Wins and AI Reflections 6:11 Teaching Code Through Python Tutor 9:03 AI Code and Student Confusion 14:11 Simplifying Execution Traces 17:19 Functions Are the Hard Part 20:25 Keeping Fundamentals in AI Era 24:25 Socratic Seminars for Code 26:27 Voice-Based Code Thinking 29:27 Learning Beyond Lockdown 36:10 Prompting as a New Skill 36:25 Hardware Troubles and NeoPixels 40:15 Beyond the Code Editor 45:01 New Research on Embodied AI 49:12 PyCon and Community Plans 50:42 Teacher Call to ActionSpecial Guest: Philip Guo.Support Teaching Python
• Episode 156: When Code Leaves the Screen 23.05.2026 56นาที

  In this episode of Teaching Python, Kelly Schuster-Paredes and Julian Sequeira are joined by engineer and maker Todd Kurt to discuss what happens when code leaves the screen and starts interacting with the physical world. The conversation centers on CircuitPython, MicroPython, and physical computing, with a focus on how these tools are used in classrooms and maker projects. Todd explains his background in engineering, web development, and open source hardware, including his work on LED devices and his recent focus on CircuitPython. He describes the differences between CircuitPython and MicroPython, emphasizing that CircuitPython is designed to feel closer to desktop Python and to support teaching, while MicroPython makes more efficiency-focused tradeoffs. The discussion also covers the practical challenges of hardware-based learning. Todd and the hosts talk about bootloaders, UF2 files, board compatibility, library management, and common mistakes such as using the wrong cable, the wrong board file, or wiring power and ground incorrectly. They note that these issues can make hardware feel frustrating, especially for beginners and teachers preparing classroom kits. Kelly and Julian share their classroom experiences, including using preloaded boards, NeoPixels, sensors, and simple student-designed projects. They discuss how hardware can support troubleshooting skills, file-system awareness, and persistence, and why students often engage more when they are building something tangible, such as a sensor-based wearable or a small robot. The episode also includes Todd’s stories about early embedded work, including a costly lab mistake, and his involvement in hardware that contributed to space missions. He closes by describing a compact synthesizer project built around a Raspberry Pi Pico and by noting that he shares work through his website and online accounts.Special Guest: Tod Kurt.Support Teaching Python
• Episode 155: Hello World is Dead 06.04.2026 47นาที

  In this episode, Sean, Kelly, and Julian tackle a provocative question: is the traditional "Hello, World" first program dead? What was once a thrilling moment of agency — telling a computer to do something and watching it respond — now competes with AI assistants, voice interfaces, and tools that can build entire applications from a single prompt. The conversation dives into the different types of learners Kelly encounters in her classroom: the students who want AI to do everything, the ones who light up when they catch AI writing unused functions, and the old-school coders who just want to write it themselves. Sean shares how he turned a massive org design challenge at work into a Python project with a SQLite database, proving that the best way to learn is still to find a real problem and solve it with code. Kelly describes her fourth-quarter experiment to create a new "Hello, World" moment for her 8th graders using school-approved AI tools, while Julian raises the important question of whether the real challenge is just showing people that code can solve their problems in the first place. The trio also explores whether AI can strip away the administrative clutter in teaching to let educators focus on what matters: engagement, personalization, and good pedagogy. The episode wraps with two pieces of news: the PyCon US Education Summit is confirmed for Thursday, May 14th, and Julian Sequeira is officially joining the show as a regular co-host — complete with a live, slightly fumbled first sign-off. Key Topics Why "Hello, World" no longer delivers the same dopamine hit for new learners The three types of student responses to AI-assisted coding Using AI to write deterministic code vs. using generative AI for repetitive tasks Sean's Python + SQLite org design tool as a real-world "solve a problem with code" example Kelly's classroom experiments with AI-generated Python apps for 8th graders EarSketch and making music with Python as a reliable engagement tool Whether AI can remove administrative clutter and let teachers focus on pedagogy The concept of "desirable difficulty" in learning Bridging the knowledge gap: helping non-coders see code as a problem-solving option PyCon US Education Summit — May 14, 2026 Julian Sequeira joining as a regular co-host Wins of the Week Kelly: Bringing two Pine Crest colleagues to PyCon US this year — Chris and Kayla, an aspiring data scientist who is excited to dive into Python and attend the Education Summit. Julian: His 10-year-old son scored his first basketball basket after multiple seasons of showing up, practicing, and persisting — a nothing-but-net shot that had the entire gym erupting. Sean: Used Claude to create a comprehensive, interactive study guide from his daughter's 11-page science PDF on water quality — complete with clickable concept maps, pH level visualizations, and chain-of-events diagrams that made 7th-grade science genuinely engaging. Announcements PyCon US Education Summit — Thursday, May 14, 2026 in Pittsburgh. Kelly is chairing the summit with 150–200 seats available. Proposals are open and encouraged. Julian Sequeira joins Teaching Python — After almost 8 years as a duo, Sean and Kelly have invited Julian to be a regular co-host, bringing fresh perspective, energy, and an Australian accent to the show. Resources & Links Teaching Python — Podcast website PyBites — Julian Sequeira's Python coaching platform EarSketch — Making music with Python (Georgia Tech) PyCon US 2026 — May 14–22, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA Claude Code — AI coding assistant mentioned by Kelly Support Teaching Python
• Episode 154: Are You Techie Enough? 03.03.2026 49นาที

  What does it really mean to be "techie"? Sean, Kelly, and guest Amelia Hough-Ross dig into the labels we put on ourselves and others — and why curiosity and persistence matter more than credentials. From imposter syndrome to productive struggle, this episode redefines what it means to be technical in a rapidly changing world. Show Notes Wins of the Week Amelia: Getting both kids to all their activities this week — taekwondo, Chinese language classes, and a piano competition where her oldest did very well Kelly: Running a series of well-attended trainings at school, including a Canva AI session that drew 60 attendees across two campuses, with new audiences (kindergarten and first grade teachers) showing up for the first time Sean: Finally getting fiber internet installed at his house after over a decade of waiting — a major upgrade from cable with latency dropping from 20-30ms to 3ms, at half the cost Links & Resources Mentioned vBrownBag — Tech community show that Amelia is preparing to present at and Sean is scheduled for later in the year PyCon US 2025 — Pittsburgh, May 2025; Education Summit on Thursday, May 14 LEGO Mindstorms — Referenced in Amelia's story about building a vending machine in 4th grade Architects of Intelligence — Book Kelly is currently reading (dense but informative, structured as short stories/interviews) How to Winter by Kari Leibowitz — Book Amelia is reading about mindset and how people approach difficult things Lars von Trier / Bjork / Catherine Deneuve film — Referenced in Amelia's story about visiting a film set in Denmark at age 18 (the film Dancer in the Dark, 2000) Chris Williams / vBrownBag — Mutual connection who introduced Sean and Amelia at AWS re:Invent Announcements PyCon US 2025 — Pittsburgh, PA. Education Summit is Thursday, May 14. Proposals still open at time of recording. Kelly will be attending PyCon with her youngest son, who will spend the weekend with family at Disneyland Sean will be supporting from home this year as his wife has a conflicting travel commitment Key Quotes "It's hard to think outside of the box when you don't know what's inside of the box." — Kelly, quoting a conference in Tampa "The difference between viewing yourself as technical and not technical is getting those successes... even just once, where something really cool happens that you weren't expecting to work." — Sean "It's much harder to believe that someone has that greatness in them and help them achieve it... It's easy to say someone's hopeless. The harder part is figuring out how to support them to get to that next level." — Amelia Special Guest: Amelia Hough-Ross.Support Teaching Python
• Episode 153: 2025 Holiday Gift Guide 14.12.2025 40นาที

  Julian Sequeira from PyBites joins Sean and Kelly to share their top holiday gift picks for coders, makers, and educators. This episode features 15+ gift ideas ranging from budget-friendly maker tools to classroom robots—plus book recommendations, coding platforms, and a few surprises. Show Notes Wins of the Week Julian: Staying focused on "the one thing" at PyBites, plus 3D printing a custom cappuccino stencil for his local café Kelly: Surviving a muddy, clay-covered hill in North Carolina while on vacation Sean: Designing and 3D printing a custom bracket for his screen door using Fusion 360 Holiday Gift Ideas Julian's Picks Hoverboard with Go-Kart Attachment (~$299 AUD) - Two-wheeled self-balancing boards that can convert to a go-kart with a third wheel attachment. Available at Hoveroo in Australia. Secret Coders Book Series (~$10-20 USD each) - A six-book graphic novel series that wraps coding puzzles and concepts into mystery stories. Recommended by Faye Shaw from the Boston PyLadies community. Great for ages 8-15. 3D Printer (~$200-300 USD) - Entry-level printers like the Bambu Lab A1 Mini or Elegoo Neptune 4 Pro have dropped significantly in price. Look for auto bed leveling as a key feature. Duolingo Chess (~$13/month with subscription) - A new addition to Duolingo that teaches chess tactics, strategy, and formal terminology through structured lessons. Great for building problem-solving skills. Classic Video Games (Zelda, Pokémon) - Story-driven games that build resilience and problem-solving skills, as an alternative to dopamine-heavy platforms like Roblox. Kelly's Picks Soccer Bot (~$59.99) - An indoor soccer training robot that challenges footwork skills. Works best on hard floors. "The Worlds I See" by Dr. Fei-Fei Li - Memoir of the computer scientist behind ImageNet and modern image recognition, covering her immigrant journey and rise in AI. A must-read for anyone interested in AI. LEGO Retro Radio Building Set (~$99) - A 1970s-style radio that you build, then insert your phone to play music. Features working dials that create authentic radio crackle sounds. Spydroid Loco Hex Robot (classroom investment) - A large spider-shaped robot that codes in Python and block programming. Features LIDAR and AI-based mapping. Seen at ISTE. Richtie Mini from Hugging Face ($299-$449) - An adorable AI desktop companion robot with onboard models. Two versions: one that connects to your computer and one that's self-contained. Sean's Picks LED Pucks (LED 001 Kit) (~$6-13) - Small USB-powered LED discs perfect for 3D printed projects like planet lamps. Available from Bambu Labs or Amazon. RGB versions include remote controls. Daily Desk Calendar (~$15-20) - A throwback gift that provides daily doses of humor, trivia, or inspiration. Suggestions include The Far Side, "They Can Talk," or "How to Win Friends and Influence People." PyBites Coding Platform (subscription) - Bite-sized Python challenges for sharpening coding skills. Great for teachers, students, and professionals looking for practical coding practice. Digital Calipers (~$40-50) - USB-rechargeable precision measuring tools essential for 3D printing and maker projects. Great for teaching geometry and measurement concepts. Deburring Tool (~$10) - A small tool with a curved swiveling blade for cleaning up 3D prints. A quality-of-life improvement for any maker's toolkit. Links Mentioned PyBites - Python coaching and coding challenges Hoveroo - Hoverboards (Australia) Bambu Lab - 3D printers and LED pucks Printables - 3D printing models MakerWorld - 3D printing models Hugging Face Richtie Mini - AI companion robot Duolingo - Language learning app with chess Secret Coders book series - Available on Amazon "The Worlds I See" by Dr. Fei-Fei Li - Available at bookstores Upcoming Events PyCon US 2026 - Long Beach, California Education Summit - Proposals open after the holidays, deadline around March/April Submit proposals when the website opens! Special Guest: Julian Sequeira.Support Teaching Python
• Episode 152: High School CS with Quincy Tennyson 26.11.2025 54นาที

  In this episode, we sit down with Quincy Tennyson, who teaches an impressive four-year computer science pathway at Fern Creek High School. Quincy's background in the Marine Corps and as a network engineer brings a unique perspective to CS education. He discusses his curriculum progression from introductory courses through AP Computer Science Principles (heavily inspired by UC Berkeley's CS61A), AP Computer Science A (Java), and a culminating Project-Based Programming course. We dive deep into his philosophy of being a "warm demander" - setting high expectations while providing intensive coaching and support. The conversation touches on several compelling topics including teaching agile methodology to high school students, the importance of transparency about failure, and how behavioral economics concepts (from thinkers like Daniel Kahneman) inform his approach to helping students understand their own thinking processes. Quincy also shares insights on supporting underserved students, running a successful Girls Who Code chapter, and navigating the integration of AI tools in the classroom. His students' enthusiasm at PyCon 2024 was infectious, and this episode reveals the thoughtful pedagogy behind their success. Key resources mentioned include CS61A from UC Berkeley, CodeHS, Code.org, Sandra McGuire's book "Teach Students How to Learn," Eric Matthes' Python Crash Course, and Al Sweigart's educational resources including his new Buttonpad library for Tkinter.Special Guest: Quincy Tennyson.Support Teaching Python
• Episode 151: AI in Practice: Learning from Law & Beyond with Pritesh Patel 29.09.2025 54นาที

  In this episode, Sean and Kelly welcome Pritesh Patel, a computer scientist specializing in AI who brings over 20 years of experience from companies like Turner Broadcasting, Walmart, and GE to his current role at Fisher Phillips law firm. Pritesh shares fascinating insights about implementing AI in knowledge-based industries, from automating his parents' frozen yogurt shop to helping lawyers transform their workflows. The conversation explores crucial concepts like the "Jobs to Be Done" framework, which emphasizes focusing on outcomes rather than getting stuck in existing processes. Pritesh explains how he approaches AI education through playfulness and intuition-building—whether that's getting Batman to sing "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star" in ChatGPT or creating AI personalities that debate humans. The discussion touches on the importance of maintaining accountability while delegating responsibility to AI tools, the power of curiosity in adoption, and how reinforcement learning might shape the future of AI integration. Key resources mentioned: Strategyn Jobs to Be Done Framework - Tony Ulwick's innovation methodology NotebookLM - Google's AI-powered research tool Suno.ai - AI music generation platform OpenAI's Real-time API for voice interactions Special Guest: Pritesh Patel.Support Teaching Python
• Episode 150: LLMs with Simon WIllison 28.08.2025 1ชม. 36นาที

  In this milestone 150th episode, hosts Kelly Schuster-Paredes and Sean Tibor sit down with Simon Willison, co-creator of Django and creator of Datasette and LLM tools, for an in-depth conversation about artificial intelligence in Python education. The discussion covers the current landscape of LLMs in coding education, from the benefits of faster iteration cycles to the risks of students losing that crucial "aha moment" when they solve problems independently. Simon shares insights on prompt injection vulnerabilities, the importance of local models for privacy, and why he believes LLMs are much harder to use effectively than most people realize. Key topics include: Educational Strategy: When to introduce AI tools vs. building foundational skills first Security Concerns: Prompt injection attacks and their implications for educational tools Student Engagement: Maintaining motivation and problem-solving skills in an AI world Practical Applications: Using LLMs for code review, debugging, and rapid prototyping Privacy Issues: Understanding data collection and training practices of major AI companies Local Models: Running AI tools privately on personal devices The "Jagged Frontier": Why LLMs excel at some tasks while failing at others Simon brings 20 years of Django experience and deep expertise in both web development and AI tooling to discuss how educators can thoughtfully integrate these powerful but unpredictable tools into their classrooms. The conversation balances excitement about AI's potential with realistic assessments of its limitations and risks. Whether you're a coding educator trying to navigate the AI revolution or a developer interested in the intersection of education and technology, this episode provides practical insights for working with LLMs responsibly and effectively. Resources mentioned: Simon's blog: simonwillison.net Mission Encodable curriculum Datasette and LLM tools GitHub Codespaces for safe AI experimentation Special Guest: Simon Willison.Support Teaching Python
• Episode 149: Guiding Education with Sheena O'Connell 15.07.2025 47นาที

  Description In this episode, we're thrilled to welcome Sheena O'Connell, an educator and developer from South Africa who has been making waves in the Python education community. Sheena shares her journey from electrical engineering to founding Prelude, where she runs advanced Django learning sprints and teamwork training courses. We explore the critical importance of soft skills in technical education, diving into Google's Project Aristotle and the five key factors that make teams effective: psychological safety, dependability, structure and clarity, meaning, and impact. Sheena provides fascinating insights into how cultural concepts like Ubuntu ("I am because we are") influence collaborative learning and professional development. The conversation covers practical strategies for teaching both technical and soft skills to adult learners, the challenges of helping students transition from learning to professional environments, and how to build psychologically safe spaces that promote growth and learning. We also discuss upcoming events including Django Con Africa in Tanzania and PyCon Africa in Johannesburg, South Africa, which Sheena is chairing. Whether you're an educator, team leader, or developer interested in fostering better collaborative environments, this episode offers valuable insights into the intersection of technical education, cultural awareness, and team dynamics. Key Topics Discussed Transitioning from technical roles to education Building effective coding bootcamps and adult learning programs The importance of soft skills in technical careers Google's Project Aristotle and team effectiveness Psychological safety and stereotype threat Cultural influences on learning and teamwork (Ubuntu philosophy) Managing the "desperation mindset" in learning environments Professional development and career transitions PyCon Africa and Django Con Africa Cross-cultural team dynamics and communication Guests Sheena O'Connell - Founder of Prelude, former educator at Umuzi, and chair of PyCon Africa 2025 Resources Mentioned Google's Project Aristotle The Culture Map (book on cultural differences in teams) Prelude Tech - Sheena's platform for Django courses and teamwork training PyCon Africa 2025 (Johannesburg, South Africa) Django Con Africa (Arusha, Tanzania) Ubuntu philosophy Umuzi (South African coding bootcamp) Connect with Sheena Personal blog: sheenaoc.com Courses and training: Prelude TV PyCon Africa 2025: October, Johannesburg, South Africa Wins and Fails of the Week Sheena Win: Successfully running a teamwork course for Canonical with an international team Fail: All her plants fell onto the couch (and the subsequent cleanup) Kelly Win: Attending ISTE conference in San Antonio, meeting previous podcast guests, and co-hosting a presentation Fail: Losing momentum on Anthony Shaw's GitHub course due to summer break Sean Win: Being interviewed by media about AI coding tools and AWS Amazon Q Fail: Home server power supply failure during a lightning storm, breaking all home automations Episode Notes This episode provides valuable insights for educators at all levels, from K-12 teachers to corporate trainers. The discussion of soft skills, cultural awareness, and team dynamics offers practical strategies that can be applied in classrooms, coding bootcamps, and professional development settings. The conversation highlights how technical education must go beyond coding skills to prepare students for successful careers, emphasizing the importance of communication, collaboration, and cultural competency in today's global technology landscape.Special Guest: Sheena O'Connell.Support Teaching Python
• Episode 148: PyCon 2025 AI Education Open Space 08.06.2025 57นาที

  In this special episode of Teaching Python, hosts Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes convene an open space discussion at PyCon US 2025 in Pittsburgh. Surrounded by a diverse group of educators, developers, and learners, they hand the mic to the community to answer two key questions: How are you using AI personally, and how do you see AI shaping education? Listeners will hear firsthand accounts from university lecturers, high school teachers, industry professionals, and volunteer mentors. Topics include the impact of AI tools on coding productivity, the challenges of assessing genuine learning in an AI-rich environment, and strategies for teaching critical thinking alongside technical skills. The episode also delves into the tension between embracing AI as an educational aid and ensuring students develop foundational problem-solving abilities. Whether you’re an educator, developer, or simply curious about the future of learning, this episode offers a nuanced, multi-perspective look at AI’s growing influence in the classroom and beyond.Support Teaching Python
• Episode 147: The Power of Teaching APIs 24.03.2025 40นาที

  In Episode 147 of Teaching Python, Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes focus on the importance and power of teaching APIs to coding students. They share personal stories and practical strategies for engaging students with APIs, from simple use cases to more complex projects. Join them as they discuss how to make lessons fun and relevant, leveraging LLMs (Large Language Models) for code explanations, and teaching through trial and error. This episode also touches on the broader applications of APIs in today's technological landscape, examining how learning APIs can open up new possibilities for students and equip them with essential skills for the future. Whether you're a teacher, student, or coding enthusiast, there's something valuable in this episode for you.Support Teaching Python
• Episode 146: PSF Education Outreach Workgroup and the Education Summit 20.01.2025 52นาที

  In episode 146 of Teaching Python, hosts Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster Perez delve into the newly established Python Education and Outreach Work Group, featuring guests Cheuk Ting Ho and Keith Murray. The group, aimed at enhancing Python education within the community, outlines its mission to gather feedback on educational resources and support initiatives like the Education Summit at PyCon US. Keith and Cheuk discuss their backgrounds and roles within the Python Software Foundation, emphasizing the need for fresh educational content and community engagement. The episode also explores the work group's goals, which include: Seeking and receiving feedback on Python educational resources Consolidating and improving existing Python education materials Supporting and expanding the education summit at PyCon US Additionally, the hosts share personal 'wins of the week,' highlighting the importance of accountability and community in the educational journey. Kelly and Sean discuss their past experiences with the Education Summit and encourage listeners to get involved by submitting talk proposals or joining in interactive sessions. The episode concludes with practical advice on how educators and enthusiasts can engage with the group to further Python education and outreach.Special Guests: Cheuk Ting Ho and Keith Murray.Support Teaching PythonLinks:PyOhio 2025 — Summer 2025 in Cleveland, OH PythonEduWGCharter - PSF Wiki — The Education & Outreach Workgroup's (EOW) purpose is to support the Python Software Foundation’s mission to promote the Python programming language, especially in supporting and enhancing the education of Python. The Education & Outreach Workgroup is a workgroup of the Python Software Foundation’s (PSF). Education Summit - PyCon US 2024 — In 2024, PyCon US held its 12th annual Python Education Summit in person!
• Episode 145: The Bigger Picture of Teaching Python 13.01.2025 1ชม. 2นาที

  In episode 145 of Teaching Python, Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes celebrate their six-year podcast anniversary and discuss the shifts within computer science education and the growing influence of AI. They both reflect on the podcast’s journey, their experiences with Blue Sky, and the milestone of over 500,000 downloads. The conversation delves into the changing landscape of tech roles, emphasizing the importance of foundational coding skills and computational thinking, regardless of emerging technologies like AI. They underline how coding remains a key skill that enables personal growth and opens vast opportunities, even in the face of fast-evolving tech sectors. Our hosts also highlight their exciting upcoming engagements, including the FETC conference and the Pine Crest Innovation Institute, encouraging listeners to remain adaptable and open to new learning avenues. Furthermore, they discuss the concept of adapting computer science curriculums to reflect real-world applications and evolving job markets, focusing on how to better prepare students for future careers. With a mix of personal anecdotes and professional insights, this episode offers a heartfelt look at the impact of teaching coding and the continuous evolution in education and technology.Support Teaching PythonLinks:Learn VIM while playing a game - VIM Adventures — Learning VIM while playing a game Teaching Python Podcast (@teachingpython.fm) — Bluesky — Teaching Python on Bluesky Sean Tibor (@seantibor.com) — Bluesky — Sean's profile on Bluesky Kelly Paredes (@kellypared.bsky.social) — Bluesky — Kelly's profile on Bluesky Future of Education Technology Conference | FETC 2025 Pine Crest School's Innovation Institute Bett UK: Leading EdTech Event | 22-24 Jan 2025, ExCeL London Top announcements of AWS re:Invent 2024 | AWS News Blog
• Episode 144: Python in Africa with Kudzayi Bamhare 06.01.2025 53นาที

  In episode 144 of Teaching Python, hosts Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes are joined by special guest Kudzayi Bamhare from Zimbabwe. They dive into the important topic of Python education as a driver of innovation in Africa, focusing specifically on the challenges and opportunities in Zimbabwe. The conversation covers how coding communities are forming and thriving despite various hurdles, and how inclusive environments can foster learning and growth in the tech industry. Kudzayi shares his inspiring journey into the world of coding, beginning with his initial exposure to Python and how attending Python conferences like PyCon Namibia have been pivotal in his growth. He emphasizes the importance of community, collaboration, and support in helping budding coders overcome challenges and stay motivated. The discussion also highlights the need for more initiatives and workshops to bridge the gap in tech education across the continent. The episode concludes with insightful ideas on how to create effective learning environments and the role of educators in nurturing future tech talents. Sean and Kelly, alongside Kudzayi, discuss the significance of making coding accessible and engaging, especially in underrepresented regions. They call on listeners to support initiatives that bring Python education to Africa, encouraging a global collaboration to drive technological progress and innovation.Special Guest: Kudzayi Bamhare.Support Teaching Python
• Episode 143: Computational Thinking 2.0 with Dr. John Chapin 30.12.2024 55นาที

  In Episode 143 of Teaching Python, hosts Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes engage in a compelling conversation with Dr. John Chapin, a renowned computer science educator and presenter at CSTA. As the CS Pathway Leader at the Academies of Loudoun, Dr. Chapin brings over a decade of experience in primary and secondary education, creating and implementing rigorous curricula for post-AP CS students. He shares insights into the transformative power of Computational Thinking 2.0, emphasizing the importance of Python and data science in today's educational landscape. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how integrating machine learning, data analytics, and mobile app development into CS education can foster a culture of inquiry, creativity, and collaboration among students and educators. Throughout the episode, Dr. Chapin discusses his recent research on the impact of whiteboarding on student self-efficacy in CS1 classes, as presented at the Association for Computing Machinery's Global Computer Education Conference (CompEd2023). He also shares his experiences conducting professional development workshops for CS teachers across Virginia and his efforts to align CS programs with the evolving needs of the workforce and society. This episode is a must-listen for educators, administrators, and anyone passionate about the future of computer science education, offering actionable ideas and inspiration to enhance their teaching practices and curriculum design.Special Guest: Dr. John Chapin.Support Teaching PythonLinks:(PDF) CT 2.0 A Neural Network Playground — Tinker With a Neural Network Right Here in Your Browser. Don’t Worry, You Can’t Break It. We Promise. Teach, learn, and make with the Raspberry Pi Foundation — Discover world-leading curricula, resources, and professional development to support the teaching and learning of AI literacy. We bring together original research, industry expertise, and practical classroom experience to help you bring the excitement of AI into your classroom. Machine Learning for Kids ACM CompEd Home - ACM CompEd About The Coalition | Data Science for Everyone AI by Hand ✍️ | Tom Yeh | Substack
• Episode 142: Middle School Magic: Integrating AI, Data Science, and Computational Thinking with Kelly Powers 22.12.2024 1ชม.

  In Episode 142 of Teaching Python, hosts Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes are joined by Kelly Powers, a fellow middle school educator and curriculum designer, to explore the dynamic world of middle school instruction. As a passionate advocate for computational thinking, Powers shares valuable insights on introducing students to the concepts of AI, data science, and cybersecurity in a way that is both rigorous and joyful. Topics Covered Engaging Middle School Students: Strategies for capturing and maintaining student interest. Creativity and Collaboration: How to foster a collaborative environment that inspires creativity. Core Computational Concepts: Real-world applications that make these concepts accessible and interesting. Data Science Projects: Practical advice on integrating data science into your curriculum. Generative AI Ethics: Discussing the ethical use of AI in education. Python as a Teaching Tool: Exploring the versatility of Python for various projects. Key Takeaways Integrating Computational Thinking Skills: Tips on how to weave these skills into everyday classroom routines. Teamwork and Communication: The importance of teamwork and effective communication in coding projects. Engaging Lessons with Python: How Python can be used to create engaging and meaningful projects for students. About Kelly Powers Kelly Powers transitioned from the business world to education, bringing a fresh perspective on teaching computational thinking. She offers invaluable insights into making rigorous and joyful learning experiences for middle school students. Whether you are an experienced teacher or new to the field, this episode is packed with actionable ideas and inspirational moments that will help you create a more engaging and effective learning environment. Tune in for a lively conversation that celebrates the magic of middle school teaching and the endless possibilities of computer science education. Listen to the episode: Teaching Python Podcast Follow us on Social Media: Twitter Facebook LinkedIn ``` Special Guest: Kelly Powers.Support Teaching PythonLinks:CodeHS - Teach Coding and Computer Science at Your School | CodeHS — Everything You Need, All In One Spot CodeHS is trusted by thousands of teachers and schools all over the world. Overview ‹ Scratch — MIT Media Lab — Scratch is the world's most popular coding community for kids. Millions of kids around the world are using Scratch to program their own interactive stories, games, and animations—and share their creations in an active online community. Welcome To Colab - Colab — Colab is an online Jupyter notebook from Google Computer Science Teachers Association Connect, Grow, & Share With CS Teachers- — CSTA understands that teaching computer science is hard. That’s why we’re focused on creating a supportive environment for K–12 educators.
• Episode 141: Unlocking Python Expertise with Trey Hunner 14.12.2024 51นาที

  Join hosts Kelly Schuster-Paredes and Sean Tibor as they welcome esteemed Python expert Trey Hunner to the show. This episode is a delightful mix of practical insights, engaging stories, and thought-provoking discussions about Python and teaching. Trey shares his experiences with listeners, starting with his recent venture into launching a 10-week Python course called Python High Five. He talks about the excitement and challenges of teaching across different time zones with this unique setup, highlighting the importance of accountability and the fun of learning alongside his students. Throughout the episode, Sean and Kelly discuss the evolving landscape of AI and its impact on learning. Trey emphasizes the critical skill of asking the right questions, saying, "Knowing how to use that tool is a really valuable thing, but also knowing what to stick into the tool and how to evaluate the output of the tool is a really valuable thing." The conversation transitions into the heart of Python programming, where Trey, Sean, and Kelly share their favorite features and nuances of Python. They explore the value of looping helpers and marvel at the elegance and simplicity of Python's tools and functions. Sean recalls a memorable teaching moment about Python turtle graphics, reflecting on the joy and discovery that comes with coding: "It was so cool that this sixth grader showed me how to do it." This episode is not just about technical insights but also about the joy of teaching and learning. Trey, Kelly, and Sean discuss strategies for balancing the basics with advanced learning and the importance of having fun in the process. Join them for a warm, inclusive conversation that invites you to be part of their journey through the wonders of Python programming.Special Guest: Trey Hunner.Support Teaching PythonLinks:Python Morsels: Write better Python code — Learning efficiently requires planning a path that repeatedly answers the question what skill should I learn next and how best can I learn it? Instead of wading through blog posts and YouTube videos in search of the next thing to learn, I can guide you. My name is Trey Hunner and I created Python Morsels to give life-long learners a low-stress way to improve their Python skills. PEP 636 – Structural Pattern Matching: Tutorial | peps.python.org — As an example to motivate this tutorial, you will be writing a text adventure. That is a form of interactive fiction where the user enters text commands to interact with a fictional world and receives text descriptions of what happens. Commands will be simplified forms of natural language like get sword, attack dragon, go north, enter shop or buy cheese. Amazon.com: The Worlds I See: Curiosity, Exploration, and Discovery at the Dawn of AI eBook : Li, Fei-Fei: Kindle Store — The Worlds I See is a story of science in the first person, documenting one of the century’s defining moments from the inside. It provides a riveting story of a scientist at work and a thrillingly clear explanation of what artificial intelligence actually is—and how it came to be. Emotionally raw and intellectually uncompromising, this book is a testament not only to the passion required for even the most technical scholarship but also to the curiosity forever at its heart. Blog Archive - Trey Hunner
• Episode 140: Girls Programming Network with Renee Noble 01.12.2024 1ชม.

  In this episode of Teaching Python, Sean and Kelly are joined by Renee Noble, a dynamic Microsoft Cloud Advocate and CEO of a nonprofit dedicated to helping women and gender-diverse individuals learn to code. The discussion delves into Renee's inspiring journey from chemical engineering to tech advocacy, her role in the Girls Programming Network (GPN), and how she has helped thousands of individuals build their coding skills and confidence. Renee emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive and supportive learning environments, explaining the unique methodologies used at GPN to cater to diverse learning levels. The conversation also covers the role of mentors and the significance of having role models at different stages of one's learning and professional journey in tech. Finally, Renee shares her insights on her advocacy work at Microsoft and the impact of clear, approachable guidance in onboarding new learners to cloud technologies. Tune in to discover valuable lessons on building supportive tech communities and fostering diversity in the industry.Support Teaching PythonLinks:ConnectEd Code Renee Noble Amazon.com: Python Cheat Sheet Desk Mat for Software Engineers, Hackers and Programmers, Quick Key, Large Anti-Slip Keyboard Pad Mouse Mat KMH : Office Products — Python Cheat Sheet Desk Mats
• Episode 139: Code Your Dreams with Brianne Caplan 24.11.2024 44นาที

  In Episode 139 of Teaching Python, hosts Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes welcome back Brianne Caplan, the dynamic founder of Code Your Dreams. The conversation explores the exciting advancements in coding education since Brianne's last appearance in 2019. They delve into the importance of blending play and learning, the impact of generative AI, and the power of community-driven innovation. Brianne shares inspiring success stories from students of all ages, from first graders creating mindfulness apps to adults developing solutions for police transparency. The episode also examines the role of failures in the learning process and the opportunities for growth they present. Tune in for an uplifting discussion about leveraging technology to create positive change in diverse communities and fostering an environment where everyone has the opportunity to innovate.Special Guest: Brianne Caplan.Support Teaching PythonLinks:Code Your Dreams | Teaching Inner-City Chicago Kids To Code — Where Every Dream Counts: Embracing Innovation Through Education for a Brighter Future
• Episode 138: Innovative Coding Education with Pamela Fox 30.09.2024 56นาที

  In episode 138 of Teaching Python, hosts Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes welcome Pamela Fox, a Principal Developer Advocate at Microsoft, to discuss the dynamic world of teaching, coding, and creating. Pamela shares her experiences working with Python in the cloud, emphasizing the various applications from serverless functions to web application backends using frameworks like Flask and Django. This episode provides a comprehensive look at how cloud-based environments like GitHub CodeSpaces and CoLab make programming more accessible and reduce the friction often associated with setting up development environments. Pamela dives into her approach to teaching and the unique challenges posed by different educational formats. Drawing from her work at institutions like UC Berkeley and her development of AP Computer Science Principles content for Khan Academy, she highlights the importance of making learning engaging and personalized. Pamela shares insights into the design of interactive and project-based curricula, touching on how tools like Parsons problems can scaffold learning effectively and make complex concepts like recursion more approachable. The conversation also explores the significance of visualizations in learning programming, as exemplified by Pamela's recursion visualizer tool. The episode concludes with reflections on the breadth of topics covered in AP CSP and the value of exposing students to a wide array of programming experiences. Listeners gain a deeper understanding of the balance between teaching fundamental concepts and encouraging creative expression through code, along with practical tips for educators at all levels.Special Guest: Pamela Fox.Support Teaching PythonLinks:GitHub - pamelafox/recursive-visualizations: An online tool to visualize recursive JS functions step-by-step as a tree. — A way to visualize the call graph of recursive functions. Uses Pyodide to run rcviz.py and then a WASM PyDot/GraphViz port to build an SVG graph. Finally, some JavaScript adds a slider for stepping through the calls. GitHub - pamelafox/faded-parsons-static: A way to run Python Faded Parsons problems entirely in the browser. — This website allows you to run Faded Parsons Problems in the browser. It uses Pyodide for executing Python doctests and localStorage for storing user progress.