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.

Leading child technology education company hires new president, expands scope

Carol Hadley

Computer Explorers, the leading technology education franchise in the US, is expanding services under the leadership of Carol Hadley, its new president.

Hadley is an experienced business leader with a history of producing growth results, most recently with Houston-based Graco Awards, a premier manufacturer of military medals such as the Medal of Honor and the Purple Heart. While at Graco, Hadley helped start a sister company and was responsible for tripling revenue within one year. Hadley brings the same passion for business development to Computer Explorers.

“Education technology is at its most pivotal point in the past twenty-five years,” says Hadley. “As classroom technology advances, Computer Explorers is positioned to offer solutions for teachers and to help an entire generation of students harness the power technology offers.”

In Computer Explorers classes, over 33,000 students a week learn tech skills through fun and engaging programs like digital movie making, video game animation and LEGO robotics, all overseen by franchisees with passion and experience. Hadley is driving the company to take advantage of current classroom trends that have created huge demand for teacher technology training.

“We have the most advanced curriculum in the country for childcare centers, elementary schools, summer camps, rec centers and after care programs,” says Hadley. “With the introduction of tablets, wireless enabled devices and the flipped classroom, schools are struggling to train teachers how to use technology; we do an excellent job of responding to that need.”

Child service-based franchises are growing at a rapid pace this year, driven by education systems struggling to increase test scores and proficiency in science, technology, engineering and math With job opportunities in STEM fields expected to grow explosively in the coming years, demand for education services that emphasize technology is at an all time high.

“It’s a great time for Computer Explorers and we are the right company at the right time,” says Hadley. “…possibly the best time in our 27 year history!”

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

Lego Robotics competition challenges kids to work together as a team while also applying their math and science skills. 

Kids demonstrating their Lego Robotics.

NBC News recently featured Computer Explorer’s Colorado franchise owner, Ross Parrent, in a segment on Lego Robotics Leagues. The Leagues are quickly becoming a popular way to teach children about science, mathematics and engineering.

Parrent facilitates the First Lego League competition in Windsor, Colorado. Computer Explorers students make up most of the team members on the current Windsor championship team.

“Lego Robotics are a lot more than playing with toys and computers,” said Parrent, who owns and operates his franchise with wife Rebecca. “They not only teach kids critical math, science and technology skills, but also allow them to work together as a team while having fun.”

The competition challenges the students to collaborate in designing, building and programming Lego robots to perform specific tasks, but operating within the confines of a 4 x 8 foot table. Over 3,000 kids are involved in Lego Robotics in Colorado this year and 279 teams, with students ranging in age from 9-14, compete in the league.

View the two minute NBC 9 video here.

Computer Explorers franchise owners are involved with Lego robotics in most areas and it has become one of the most popular technology classes for children. Computer Explorer often offers Lego Robotics class in school and at recreational centers, after-care programs and summer camp sessions.

For more information on Computer Explorers, 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 provides childcare centers with essential training, tools and software

Robin's inspiration, Computer Explorers franchisee Hans Wagner.

Robin Rohrbach, a former Kindergarten teacher and veteran childcare center owner, loves introducing fun and engaging technology programs to the young students at her childcare center through Computer Explorers. For over 15 years Robin has offered programs that give young children confidence to explore technology and collaborative skills to succeed in the future. Here is her story:

CE: How did you come to incorporate Computer Explorers into your childcare center?
Robin: I met the owner of our local Computer Explorers, Hans Wagner, at an early childhood event booth over 15 years ago. I really liked the idea of the ComputerTots program, and more so the fact that instructors came into the center and brought the equipment with them. The instructors brought in Macintosh computers and introduced the children to up-to-date technology that we didn’t have.

CE: What is it like working with the Computer Explorers instructor?
RR: The instructor that comes to our school, Miss Cindy, keeps close communication with our staff and takes notice of what concepts they are working on with the children. She will tweak her program to complement our program which helps the children further understand what they are learning. But we aren’t the only ones who love Miss Cindy, the kids are so excited when she is here. Some of them recognize her car as she pulls into the parking lot and alert the others that, “Miss Cindy is here!”. We have offered the program for more than 15 years and have only had two teachers in all those years.

CE: How do Computer Explorers programs foster collaborative learning?
RR: Along with working on number concepts, spacial relations, numeric concepts and more, the children are learning to work together. They are learning how to cooperate – they have to wait their turn and learn how to take turns.

Miss Cindy is always praising and encouraging the children, so even if they are not making the correct choice the first time she fosters the confidence that helps them get it the next time around. She is always letting the kids try again, and the students cheer for one another. It’s a very positive, proactive experience.

CE: How has Computer Explorers benefited the children so far?
RR: The ComputerTots program has provided them access to much more software and technology than we could ever afford. And the children are not just playing games. They are learning how to use a computer – learning the elements of a computer and how it functions. My grandson has been introduced to these programs and at 2 1/2 years was able to navigate an iPad or iPhone.

CE: What is your educational and professional background?
RR: I have a Bachelor’s degree in elementary education with a concentration in early childhood. I was a Kindergarten teacher until I became owner and director at the childcare in 1987. This is my 25th year here!

CE:How important is it that youngsters get this type of training early?
RR: I think this type of training is crucial for young ones. As soon as they enter public schools, or “the big school” as we call it, there are computers everywhere and they are expected to know how to perform fundamental computer tasks. Computer Explorers gives them a concrete basis for the rest of their education, and that is what we are here for: to build a foundation.

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

Computer Explorers gives kids hands-on experience with technology, boosting creativity and learning

Kids know how to work around a social media site, but other skills are falling to the wayside.

It’s easy to think that kids today are all masters of the online world since they’ve grown up with the Internet, seem to live on social media and have access to an array of devices that keep them connected at all times.

Truth is, today’s kids may be online a lot, but they’re not necessarily blazing new creative trails.

Andra Brichacek of the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) wrote last year that students today “are far more comfortable and proficient with technology than older generations could ever hope to be … (but) their range of skills does not necessarily extend to more complex technological tasks.”

As one commenter on her story noted, “How many can touch-type, add an attachment to an email, or be more creative and manipulate an image or create a film or song from scratch?”

That’s where Computer Explorers can help, by offering the best computer classes for kids.

The hands-on classes let students have fun while learning the science, technology, math and engineering skills that will help them succeed.

Take a look at some of the courses we offer:

• Rocketeering: Kids get to build — and launch — their own model rocket using compressed air. Along the way, they learn about aeronautics, thrust, drag and ballast.

• Robotics: Yes, you can build and program your own robot, using a teaching system developed by experts at MIT. Using the LEGO WeDo  Robotics System, students learn engineering and programming.

• Video Game Design: Have you ever wondered what goes into making a video game a reality? We offer courses that allow students to create their own characters that dance and interact with one another, and by the time the course is over, students will have a playable video game that they can post online. In the meantime, they boost their programming and visual arts skills.

• Build your own App: Kids will learn how to create their own math practicing apps, voice recognition, remote controller, compass, and altimeter apps. Do you have a budding entrepreneur on your hands? A lot of businesses are eager to get their own mobile app. This program can put your kid way ahead of the curve.

• Digital Moviemaking: Students create their own characters, costumes and sets, use a digital camera to record the action, then digital editing to give their work a final polish. Creativity fuels this course, which teaches technical skills that students can use to bring their stories into the world.

That’s just a tiny fraction of what Computer Explorers offers. Computer Explorers is an international education company that uses proprietary, state-of-the-art curricula and cutting edge technology to give over 33,000 students a competitive edge in math, reading, science and other core academic subjects. Computer Explorers offers technology classes for after school programs, summer camps, and recreation/community centers and more.

Interested in one of our programs? Visit www.computerexplorers.com to find a location near you.

Computer Explorers is preparing kids to solve global problems (and the kids think they’re just having fun)

Kim Storch is the director of enrichment for Canterbury School in Fort Myers, Fla., where she handles after school programs and summer camps. She works closely with Computer Explorers franchisee Michelle Hershey, who provides tech-savvy programs for students.

How long have you been directing at Canterbury School?
I’ve been with Canterbury for 25 years, mostly as a parent. Both my kids have gone through here. I’ve been director of enrichment for five years. I was deeply involved as a parent and a volunteer before joining the payroll.

What do students like about Computer Explorers?
A lot of the programs are very hands-on, like the LEGO robots they get to build. Of course, kids love LEGOs. The parents love that it’s a STEM program (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). With computers, the kids have a good time. It’s second nature to them to interact with computers, and parents realize that computer literacy is going to be a vital component for their kids to be successful in the future.

What do teachers like about it?
I think the teachers like the fact that the Computer Explorers teachers are exceptional. They have wonderful knowledge of the material. They’re very organized; they’re very prepared. They’re very professional. Everything that they say to the kids is positive. We at Canterbury are very directed toward 21st century education, and toward collaboration. The world is becoming flatter. Students who are culturally and cross-culturally aware are more tolerant and can problem-solve. We instill in our students a huge social responsibility. The computer enables our kids to work in teams and work with their peers and problem-solve. Now is a good time for kids to learn that teamwork is the best way to work. It will be important for analyzing complex problems in the future. Now, they’re having fun and they don’t even realize that they’re learning new skills that they will use in the future. And it’s an overlay of different age groups who are having a good time with their peers in a safe and positive environment with positive role models. Computer Explorers is part of our family.

During summer programs we have a rotation of teachers, and they’re all terrific and as dedicated as the owner of the franchise. They’re all just A-plus. I would not think of anyone better than Michelle Hershey and her staff. They have great ethics and positive attitudes, and a willingness to adapt instruction to all levels of children. I would never think of using anyone else in our enrichment programs for computers.

What changes do you see in students?
The classes that they offer are always updated and new. So it’s fresh for the kids, and they are able to build upon the skills that they learned previously. It’s not stale or stagnant. The kids just jump right in.

How do the lessons carry over into class?
I think when they are able to use their critical thinking and problem-solving, their communication is enhanced, and so is their collaboration and their creativity. It gets them leaning toward innovation. It’s huge. It’s opening up doors for them as far as the global landscape.

How do students react when it’s time for Computer Explorers?
They’re very excited. As the teacher enters the room, none of the kids are saying they’d rather go outside or hang out with their friend Johnny. It’s really amazing. They think of it as a form of play. They don’t even realize that they’re learning engineering concepts. They know they have to listen and follow instructions. They can’t just be playing on the computer like they do at home. It’s easy even for the small ones during the summer. We have 2- and 3-year-olds who have never used the mouse before, and they listen and follow directions and they want to learn because they know that the other kids already know how to use computers, and they don’t want to be left out.

Does it change the way children interact with one another?
I find them to be more tolerant and accepting. They’re learning social responsibility. They can’t be hurtful. They have to cooperate if they want to be successful with their projects. Our kids are wired for this. Obviously, watching small children, you can see that they’re hard-wired for using computers, and it’s going to make them more socially responsible and able to solve the big problems in the future as far as getting along with our partners in the world. It’s just amazing how much they can accomplish and how much they get done through use of the computer.

What Computer Explorer offerings are most popular?
Anything with the word LEGO. Right now we have LEGO Junior Engineering and treasure hunting with robots, and that’s very popular. Everything basically with the word “LEGO” in it is what the kids gravitate toward. And anything with the word “robotics,” the parents are interested in, because they understand that that’s where innovation takes place. They want to see their kids learn the skills that will help them do great things for themselves.

CE brings technology into classrooms — for both students and teachers

CE provides tools for teachers to excel at teaching.

Technology is evolving at a rapid pace, making it difficult at times for teachers to keep up. But with Computer Explorers’ professional development program, teachers can easily stay current on technology trends and pass the knowledge along to their students.

Our veteran educators work with experts at MIT and other universities to create programs that make it fun for children to learn science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) concepts. Whether Computer Explorers is teaching robotics, computer programming, video production or rocket science, children get to experience the wonders of technology hands-on.

Computer Explorers takes pride and pleasure in passing tech knowledge and skills to teachers as well as students. That’s why we emphasize professional development and share our knowledge.

First, CE professional development courses give teachers constant access to a technology expert. Computer Explorers instructors are experienced educators who coach teachers through the latest advancements and, better yet, how to use them in the classroom. Our program guides teachers through the use of technologies such as iPads, interactive whiteboards and wikis.

“Professional development programs can give you better teaching tools, broaden your scope of thinking and create a richer learning environment,” says Cyndee Perkins, director of curriculum and program development at Computer Explorers. “By helping teach other teachers, Computer Explorers instructors can help keep an entire faculty on the cutting edge of technology education.”

Second, on-site professional development programs save money otherwise spent on travel and lodging for out-of-town conferences. Budgets are tight, and our program ensures that schools make use of every penny available for teacher education by bringing the learning to them.

Technological change creates big challenges and big opportunities, which is why more schools are turning to Computer Explorers to give their classrooms a boost. Give us a call at 1-800-531-5053 and check out www.computerexplorers.com/educators to find out how we can help yours.