By: Mary Werlin
Instructional Technology Specialist, Needham Public Schools
Professional Development Committee, MassCUE

Last week I had the opportunity to observe students demonstrate their coding skills at Broadmeadow School in Needham as part of MassCUE’s
first ever Learning Tours. Kibo’s, BeeBots, Makey Makey, WeDo and Scratch were the tools showcased by students in grades 1-3.
Teachers from more than five districts watched the students actively engaged and excited to show their skills. The tech center was a bevy of activity as students created sounds with Makey, Makey, rotated an earth “sprite” with Scratch, and programmed their BeeBots and Kibo’s, due to Needham’s theme based STEAM curriculum.

The visiting teachers left with App recommendations and handouts excited to try out these new tools in their classrooms. A very special thank-you to Barbara Tennyson for sharing these innovative projects with the MassCUE community.