Teaching Computer Science & Coding Skills Through the Power of Engagement to Earn Industry-Based certifications

Computer science skills are in high demand, yet many students disengage from traditional coding instruction. Learn how we inspire students to embrace coding and computational thinking by teaching programming concepts in meaningful ways, with supportive tools for teachers and students to achieve multiple industry-based certifications in a variety of technology fields. Here are three objectives for the session: 1. Engage Students in Coding – Discover innovative strategies to inspire students to embrace coding and computational thinking, making computer science more accessible and engaging. 2. Effective Teaching Methods – Learn how to implement meaningful programming instruction using supportive tools that enhance student learning and teacher facilitation. 3. Pathways to Industry Certifications – Understand how to guide students toward earning multiple industry-based certifications in various technology fields, preparing them for future career opportunities. Relevance: Academic esports aligns with the Career and Technical Education (CTE) field by providing students with hands-on, career-oriented experiences that foster critical skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and digital literacy. These competencies directly contribute to emerging careers in technology, game development, and digital media, while offering pathways for students to explore technical and career-focused education in a rapidly evolving industry. Value: 1) Learn to use esports to prepare students for future careers: Discover how esports programs can cultivate skills that align with emerging job markets. 2) Explore strategies for engaging students in future-ready technology education: Understand how to integrate esports to spark curiosity and build foundational skills in critical areas. 3) Implement methods to support and empower underrepresented students: Use esports to create inclusive opportunities and pathways for diverse populations. 4) Develop practical approaches for educators to create sustainable esports programs: Obtain guidelines for designing stackable credentials and initiatives that ensure students are equipped for future challenges.