You might want to read part 1 first. But I promised that I’d show you how I avoid complete chaos with this approach. And here’s how I do it. Once they submit their GDD (Game Design Document), I check it for any gotchas: too ambitious for the time and the platform, not enough details, too […]
Just in time learning, part 2 Read More »
I’m a big believer in using “teachable moments”. Those are the times when the concept/material aligns with the learner’s Need to Know. And the more of those teachable moments there are, the stickier the learning is. So the question is…. how do we provide as many of those teachable moments as possible in our curriculum?
Just-in-time learning, Part 1 Read More »
I have found very few lazy students in my teaching career. What I have found are disengaged students, who find no connection between their lives and the material they have to learn.That’s why I always strive for two things in my approach: immediately engaging material (say Minecraft, for instance), and a project chosen by the
Lazy students? Here’s my take Read More »
I know all the arguments about “preparing for the future” (which is now, by the way), getting tech jobs, the value of computational thinking, digital literacy et al. And they’re all relevant and true. But here’s my take, as a former English teacher. I’ll explain why that’s relevant. No one ever questions that all students
Why every kid needs to learn coding Read More »
I can teach any of these things. What would you like to take a course in?Kodu game designMicroBitsCommand blocks introCommand blocks intermediateAgent coding in M:EEScratch game designVirtual roboticsIntro HTMLTurtle LogoRaspberry Pi and Python codingPython game design with PygameBeginner Lua Coding RobloxRetro game design with ArcadeSonic PiProcessingUNO beginner
What course would you like me to teach you? Read More »
Such a powerful command! The closest you can get to if/then in Minecraft commands. And you can do so much with it. As always, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe! Help the channel!
Using the Execute command in Minecraft Read More »
Some new content on my YouTube channel. A seriously cool and easy effect to add to your minigame or map. As always, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
The Effect command in Minecraft Read More »
Part 1 Would the entire educational system collapse? Rampant student laziness and disengagement? Teacher confusion and frustration? I wonder. I’ve thought a LOT about grades and assessment through my career. Trust me, I get that the whole system runs this way. I get that it’s easy for me to suggest a different way, now that
What if we didn’t give grades? Read More »
I am so excited about my first online course! This is a new venture for me in my “retirement”. I’m no stranger to remote learning, having done it for over a year during the pandemic. But this is my new company, and I’m taking my “Hard Fun” approach on the road! The course is Minecraft
First online course starting Monday, Sept. 12! Read More »
I’m so excited to be on this new adventure as CrouchingPython! Taking my “hard fun” approach from the physical classroom to the virtual space is the new challenge. I’m starting with a short 4 week course on building your own Minecraft minigame with command blocks. This is a particular favorite of mine(and students!), which I
Building out a Minecraft minigames course Read More »
