Progra-MEER – more than programming
Funded by Google’s CS4HS programme, Progra-MEER is a professional development opportunity for Computer Science (CS) teachers in Flemish high schools. Teachers with minimal previous experience can take part in hands-on workshops and discover new approaches to teaching CS. This gives them the tools they need to either introduce computer science to the school curriculum or improve existing teaching. Microprocessor and microcontroller platforms, which are embedded in many of the devices we use every day, including phones, keyboards, digital cameras and even cars, have become a key part of education. Reinhilde Van Hessche, a Belgian school teacher, says, “This is the first training course I’ve ever participated in that provides me with teaching materials I can use effectively in class. What’s more, working together with other teachers helps me reflect on how best to teach this subject.” With the support of Google, Progra-MEER is helping teachers to expand their skills with an emphasis on computational thinking and programming. Throughout the course, teachers develop programming projects which they then use back in the classroom, enabling them to share best practices and new-found expertise with their fellow teachers.
This is the first training course I’ve ever participated in that provides me with teaching materials I can use effectively in class. What’s more, working together with other teachers helps me reflect on how best to teach this subject.