Code Zone for Teens 2020 is a Success, Thank you to all participants!

The second edition of Code Zone for Teens which held on September 1 – 30, 2020 has successfully been concluded. The amazing thing about this edition is that it is virtual.

Before it was organized, several considerations were put into consideration;  Age range (11- 17) to assess the concentration on virtual training, uninterrupted, and most probably unsupervised access to the internet, 3 hours of daily classes – VIRTUAL, etc. It just felt like a recipe for what cannot work. However, the team decided that if it is for ONE reason that the session is worth it, then we must hold it.

This year we had 7 participants and they further gave us a reason to continue the classes. Almost all the participants did not know jack about programming as when they joined and amazingly as on the last day when they had to present even their parents were in awe. Their areas of interest which determined the website they developed were e-commerce, public health, games & music.

What this edition has re-enacted for us;

–          Do not underestimate the tenacity of children especially when they are interested. These Children were by their computers at 8 am daily for classes, some even had to do 7 am for specific reasons

–          Collateral Learning: while they set out to learn a programming language, they also became ZOOM meeting experts, Internet strength experts (they had to try several networks to stay connected), Presentation skills: they had to present their project to a large audience so they had to compose their thoughts.

–          Value can be spotted: Though many parents/guardians do not completely understand what the kids have been taught,  they are excited that the time was not wasted. Even if it’s for the discipline of waking up early, trying to complete a task, positive use of the internet. They are glad they got value.

Thanks to all that participated and to parents that allowed us to add value to their children. We look forward to the 2021 edition we know it will be Bigger & Better. We are confident that these kids will play on the world stage someday really soon.