Rec center representative says Computer Explorers makes a big impact on children’s educations

Computer Explorers teaches children how to use technology as a tool to further their education. (photo courtesy of Storye book, via Wikimedia Commons)

As Assistant to the Director of the East Windsor Recreational Center for the city of East Windsor, NJ, Barbara Vinch understands the powerful role Computer Explorers programs play in a child’s life. She spoke with us about the many ways she sees children benefitting from having Computer Explorers in her center.

How did you come to incorporate Computer Explorers into your center?
Our center has been using Computer Explorers programs for the last 5 to 6 years. Our former director made the initial pitch to get Computer Explorers’ curriculum into our center.

How do Computer Explorers programs foster learning?
At the end of each program, we do a review with parents and get great reviews for Computer Explorers programs. Parents praise the positive reinforcement our programs provide. They also like how their children are able to take the knowledge they learn at our center and bring it home to continue using it on their own computer. Every eight weeks, the Computer Explorers instructor changes program formats, which enables children to continue building on their knowledge.

What do you like about offering these programs?
Students can build on their skills — it’s a learning experience for them. Some children have never had previous exposure to a computer. We have children between kindergarten and fifth-grade who are now using laptops.

Can you describe a typical class?
Currently, we are offering an eight-week computer-based technology class. On one project, students get to build a comic strip using the computer. They develop original ideas for stories using their own imaginations. They use their own verbal knowledge to develop the script. This is a lot different than a basic arts and crafts class.

How does Computer Explorers affect the way children use technology?
It all depends on what knowledge level a student is at. Computer Explorers instructors have to work with all ages and skill levels in one classroom. Children may not even know how to use a keyboard before entering a Computer Explorers program. They may not even have a computer in their home, meaning we may be literally taking them from nothing. The great thing about the Computer Explorers programs is that each class has only around 10 to 12 students, which offers a lot of one-on-one interaction between student and teacher.

How important are the classes for children?
Computer Explorers courses are very important. If parents don’t have the time to teach, these programs give our kids a start so they won’t get behind.

Do you have any examples of it making a big difference in a child’s life?
I don’t have a specific direct example because I only get feedback from our parent reviews. However, last year we almost had to cancel a Computer Explorers course because there weren’t enough students enrolled. One of the fathers, who understood the value of the program, asked how many students were needed to fill the class and he offered to pay for their enrollment so his child could attend. I think that shows how much these programs matter to parents who understand what Computer Explorers has to offer children.

East Windsor Recreational Center is served by Computer Explorers of Mercer & Hunterdon Counties. Owner Jenifer Morack can be contacted at 609-751-6870 or director@computerexplorersnj.com. Founded in 1983, Computer Explorers is the original child technology education franchise. The company broadened its scope to provide innovative STEM-based programs for schoolagers in after school and summer camps, and to teach Microsoft ® applications to students in elementary schools. The company is expanding its offerings in 2012 to include professional development for educators and technology teachers in schools. For more information about Computer Explorers programs, visit www.computerexplorers.com.

Parent of two talks about benefits of tech programs, raves about Computer Explorers

Nicole Scimeca learned computer basics thanks to a ComputerTots class. (Photo courtesy of Gail Scimeca)

Gail Scimeca knows the benefit of introducing children to technology education at an early age. A former technology education teacher for gifted children, Scimeca enrolled her daughters in the Computer Explorers programs in Park Ridge, IL, years ago and has watched as her daughter’s interests in math, science and technology have increased.

What initially attracted you to Computer Explorers and their programs?
I really liked the fact that they bring a lot of expertise to the program. You don’t get that kind of expertise in schools. Computer Explorers incorporates more problem solving, and more technology — things that aren’t offered in a normal school curriculum. I really liked that they were learning to cooperate with others in a group and problem solve together.

What programs have they taken? What are some of their favorites?
My older daughter has taken a lot of the animation classes, the CSI digital microscope and the LEGO engineering classes. She has taken the LEGO engineering class over and over again. They are always completing new projects or simple machines, and building innovative things with the LEGOS. Lately she has imagined her projects in 3-D, which is an exciting architectural aspect for her to get into.

My younger daughter has done ComputerTots. The program has really given her a familiarity with the computer and working in small groups. She is so proficient with the computer, probably because she learned the basics when she was 3!

Have you seen their technology skills, or comfort with technology, grow since taking these programs?
Absolutely. My older daughter is very interested in the animation programs and has gone on to do some very advanced stuff. Computer Explorers is a great way for children to find what interests them early on. Children need to be given more opportunities to experiment with the technology and things that are out there. This is a higher level of thinking than it seems, and it’s really amazing what they can do. My daughters are getting a strong educational basis and having fun doing it.

How are you hoping this impacts your daughters’ futures?

Danielle Scimeca has taken several LEGO engineering classes offered by Computer Explorers. (Photo courtesy of Gail Scimeca)

I think it’s certainly the beginning of engineering and architecture principles. Computer Explorers breaks it down to what kids understand and then builds on that. It has definitely spurred an interest in math and science for the girls.

How has it been working with the CE teachers and directors?
They are just great with the kids. The girls love the teachers — they are able to give direction and also give them freedom to work on what they are doing. They don’t show them what to do, they guide them and let them feel their way. They are also great at suggesting programs and other things we can do from home. We have a digital microscope and other technology at home now for the girls.

I am a stay at home mom and was a gifted education teacher for 13 years in accelerated classes for math and reading. I have actually taught similar programs and think that what they do is very valuable.

For more information about Computer Explorers or to find a location near you, visit www.computerexplorers.com.

The Apple iPad has quickly become a classroom fixture. For Computer Explorers, it’s a stepping stone

The Apple iPad is a powerful way to introduce children to computing. Photo courtesy of RichN, via Wikimedia Commons.

Young children discover the world through touch. Anybody who has young kids, or teaches them, knows how much curious toddlers love to reach out for anything that interests them.

That’s why, when 2- and 3-year-olds play for the first time with a Computer Explorers Apple iPad, the result can be magical.

Since young students can swipe the screen on an iPad, they can start using technology immediately — even before they develop the keyboarding and mouse skills they’ll need to master other computers.

“Young children seem to intuit how to use the iPad, because they explore their world primarily by seeing, reaching and touching ,” says Cyndee Perkins, the director of curriculum and program development for Computer Explorers. “The trick is turning iPads into a learning tool and not just a toy.”

Thousands of educational apps make the iPad a powerful learning tool. But with the right courses and instruction, Computer Explorers students can learn a lot more than how to use an app — they learn how to build one.

Computer Explorers’ youngest students learn computer basics — such as the difference among monitor, keyboard and CPU — in ComputerTots, Computer Explorers’ program for preschoolers. In ComputerTots, classes of three and four students collaborate as they work with computers and iPads.

As students’ skills advance, they can tackle robotics, video game animation and REALbasic computing. Eventually, children learn how to use the Android operating system to create their own apps.

“Technology like the Apple iPad fires children’s imaginations, and we keep that fire burning,” says Computer Explorers president Carol Hadley. “We show children how they can use math and science to turn their ideas into reality.”

Computer Explorers offers a range of courses that teach science, math, engineering and technology concepts to children in preschool through elementary school. To find a location near you, go to www.computerexplorers.com/locations.

Computer Explorers teacher Christine Summa teaches close to 100 preschoolers each week at schools in the Fort Myers, Fla., area. She spoke with us about her experience as a technology education teacher for young students and how ComputerTots, Computer Explorers preschool program, benefits their futures.

Christine Summa

Computer Explorers: How long have you been working for Computer Explorers? How did you come to work for the local franchise?
Christine Summa: I’ve been with Computer Explorers for eight years. Prior to CE I worked as a supervisor at an insurance company, as a bank teller and as a stay-at-home mom. When my kids started school, I began teaching preschool but was looking for other employment. Being a Computer Explorers teacher enables me to work while my children are in school, spend time with them and do what I love all the same.

CE: What is your educational and professional background?
CS: I went to the University of Connecticut and studied English and psychology. When I heard about Computer Explorers, I knew they were looking for someone who was good with the little ones, organized and technology-savvy. It was a perfect fit. I have learned so much from teaching these programs, and my director is great about having training sessions to keep everyone up to speed on the latest technology.

CE: What do you like best about teaching these programs?
CS: There are many wonderful things about these programs. The children are always happy to see me, and they enjoy what they’re learning very much. I usually only teach three children at a time — all very well-behaved — which enables me to spend a lot of one-on-one time with the kids. My director, Michelle Hershey, is great to work with. Overall, teaching for Computer Explorers is just a happy experience.

CE: Can you describe a typical ComputerTots class?
CS: ComputerTots classes are 30 minutes long. We have a puppet whose name is CT, for “ComputerTots.” I always hide something inside of CT’s shell that pertains to our lesson. Next week we’ll be learning about digital microscopes. In CT, I’ll have magnifying glasses and will ask the students what magnifying glasses do, and we’ll talk about how they make things look bigger. I give them a chance to think and let them come up with the answer. Then I say, “That’s what the microscope does, too!”

I also start each class with a little educational song: I’m a little computer, just for you. Here is my monitor, and my CPU. Can you find my keyboard and CD-Rom? Just click the mouse to start the fun. I’m a high achiever, and I expect my children to be, too. We’ll use the computer to show languages – we’ve done Spanish, French and Mandarin. We use the computer to teach sciences. This week we’re doing a magnets game on computers, and we also did a static electricity experiment. I always write a note to parents to let them know what their child is learning and what they were able to do. Positive reinforcement goes a long way with the kids!

CE: How do children react to your class?
CS: Kids love coming to class. I’ve had a lot of parents tell me that kids aren’t always happy to go to school, but they’re thrilled to go to school on Tuesdays because they get to go to ComputerTots. They like what they are learning, and it makes them happy.

CE: How tech-savvy are the students you work with? Have you noticed a real change over time as new ones start?
CS: I have found that parents don’t spend time teaching their children about computers at home. So some of the children are tech-savvy and some not at all. It’s amazing to see how the children grow over a two-year period. A lot of them will come to me without knowing how to use a mouse, and by the time they leave the program, they are comfortable with the language and know how to confidently use the computer and navigate through the programs on their own.

CE: People say that these programs help build problem-solving skills among young learners. Do you have some examples?
CS: I think that’s true. They enjoy solving puzzles and are proud of themselves and their peers when they do. I like to give each child their own time to figure out the problem. It’s amazing what the other children learn just by watching others take turns. We were building machines on the computer yesterday. Some things worked, some did not, some children I had to give some hints to. But they all figured it out, and they were proud of themselves. They got a real sense of accomplishment.

CE: How do Computer Explorers programs foster collaborative learning?
CS: With ComputerTots, it’s more about one-on-one interaction and giving children a chance to do things directly. However, the children learn to take turns, watch and listen while others are participating. It teaches them to be patient and to collaborate.

CE: Are there any instances that are especially memorable?
CS: I spend a lot of time getting to know these kids over a year or two, and I’m proud of seeing them improve. That’s what I like. I like seeing them go from not very skilled or very confident, and four months later they’re amazing. And they know it. That’s the moment that I enjoy.

CE: How important is it that youngsters get this type of training early?
CS: I think its very, very, very important. School is getting harder and harder every single year. It was harder for my daughter who is in college than it was for me, and it’s tougher now for my high school freshman than it was for my college sophomore. They have to be good at everything. In kindergarten, they’re expected to read a book and take an online test to answer 10 questions. Then in second grade they’re expected to type a page for a report, and in fourth grade, they have to do PowerPoints. It’s the new way of the world, and I enjoy helping prepare these students for the rest of their lives.

For more information about Computer Explorers programs, visit www.computerexplorers.com.

Students at Computer Explorers have fun, get ahead in science, technology, engineering and math education

Photo credit andreavallejos on Flickr.

Depending upon your age, the word “robot” is often associated with fictional characters like Rosie the Maid from “The Jetsons,” Johnny 5 from Short Circuit or even with Pixar’s Wall-E.

A growing fascination among several generations, robots have evolved from an on-screen presence to a learning tool for students at Computer Explorers. Learning how to build and control robots challenges students to solve scientific, mathematical and engineering puzzles in order to bring their creations to life.

Students acquire the skills needed to succeed in our increasingly competitive world — and actually have fun doing it. And with the boost of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) skills, students are able to get ahead in areas where American education lags.

Here are a few of Computer Explorers robotics courses:

Let’s Do Robotics: With the LEGO™ WeDo Robotics System, young children can build and program their own robotic creations. Designed by the experts at MIT, this unique system teaches children about simple machines, engineering, programming and so much more.

My First Look at Robotics: Meet Roamer, a child-friendly robot just waiting to follow your child’s commands. Even our youngest students will be able to program this robot to dance, help tell stories and play music as they are introduced to robotics and programming in an entertaining way.

Rock & Roll Robotics: Using the LEGO™ WeDo Robotics System, your robots will include a monkey that plays a drum to a rock ‘n’ roll beat, a lion that roars, a bird that flaps its wings to create a big wind, a sleeping giant who will awaken on your command and a boat that will rock on the rough seas. This course builds knowledge of simple machines, engineering, programming, and teamwork.

Computer Explorers knows that the best way to teach STEM skills is to engage students in the hands-on process of creation — whether that creation is a robot or a film, a blog or a video game.

Students’ STEM skills aren’t just equations scribbled in a notebook — we help them take their creative visions and build them into reality. It’s the sort of experience that fires the imagination and makes students realize that becoming an engineer, a programmer or a mathematician isn’t something that’s boring or out-of-reach.

For more information regarding course offerings, visit www.computerexplorers.com or give us a call.

Computer Explorers helps students set eyes on Mars

St. Francis of Assisi Elementary School

Computer Explorers has been a revelation for fifth-grade teacher Mary Newman since she joined the staff at St. Francis of Assisi Elementary School. The 18-year veteran of Sacramento schools started working with Computer Explorers when she joined the St. Francis faculty two years ago. Since then she has developed an easy, informal collaboration with Computer Explorers teacher Stefan Wenk, who works across the hall. She spoke with us about her experience.

Computer Explorers: How long have you been working with Computer Explorers? How did you come to work with them?
Mary Newman: It’s my second year working with them. Computer Explorers was already a presence here at St. Francis when I started working here two years ago.

CE: What is your educational and professional background?
N: This is my 18th year teaching. I graduated from UC Davis, where I studied psychology before getting my teaching credentials.

CE: What do you like best about these programs?
N: It’s dealing with a lot of the same skills that I’m trying to develop in my class: listening, following directions, team building. They learn the skills they need in order to do a research paper.

CE: What is it like to work with Stefan?
N: He’s wonderful. Fabulous computer guy. Very helpful. The kids love him, and he makes sure that what he’s teaching works well with my program. We coordinate very well. I’ll tell Stefan, “I’ve got a program coming up, can you support it?” and he always says yes and tailors computer lessons to help out.

CE: How do the kids react to him?
N: The kids love working on computers. He makes it fun, and the program itself is fun, and they’re learning. I have a project right now on explorers, and they can go to him for help with research and how to put their paper together, since we require cover and title pages and a bibliography. All of our students get a computer period during the day. He’s there after school, too, and they can go to him and say, “Mr. Wenk, am I doing this right?” It’s helped a lot. The kids really enjoy it. A lot of them go to the lab after school until 4, so you know they’re enjoying it.

CE: How does Computer Explorers complement what kids are learning in your classroom?
N: It kind of goes with a couple of other programs we do, and skills like learning how to work together as a team. They have to learn how to research, how to put together a report. We do research papers, we do team projects, all those things. I do a big project on the Mars mission where kids pretend to be an astronaut on the Space Shuttle while another kid pretends to be on the ground, using computers to provide guidance. Neither one has all the information that they need to accomplish their mission, so they have to work together. Stefan works with them as they take turns playing each role in order to accomplish their mission using the computer. It’s all about following directions and team building.

CE: What does Computer Explorers bring that might otherwise be missing?
N: Organization. We need the program to help build computer skills. It is very organized and the lessons build on one skill after the other.

CE: How do Computer Explorers programs foster collaborative learning?
N: A lot of the skills that Stefan works on with the kids involve using the computer to collaborate. His stuff goes perfectly with my program. The kids work together great, and they’re accomplishing a task. Stefan also has everything organized, and has directions ready to go as soon as kids walk into the room, so they know what they need to do and there’s no downtime.

CE: Have you noticed kids gaining confidence in the classroom?
N: Absolutely. For one thing they like the class, but now that they have these projects to do, they also have the skills they need so it’s not overwhelming.

CE: Are there any instances that are especially memorable?
N: I’ve seen students help one another on the reports. They’re learning the skills well enough to teach the other kids. And that’s important, because research reports are something that they’ll be doing a lot more of in high school. My own kids are in high school and college — they have to know what they’re doing. They have to know how to do research on computers. My kids did not have this program, and I think that my students are a lot more ready for research than my kids were. (Recently) they were learning from Stefan how to put a newsletter together and how to add and take away things from the paper and move them around. They are really practical things to learn, but they are also learning to work as a team. There were a lot of skills going on in a very short time.

CE: How important is it that youngsters get this type of training early?
N: These kids need this. They have to be proficient by the time they get to high school, because you have to submit work on a computer, turning things in through turnitin.com. You have to know how to do presentations in PowerPoint, all that stuff.