On November 3rd, the Acadia Computer Science Society presented an Introduction to Programming workshop for non-Computer Science majors. The workshop allowed people to explore HTML without the commitment of signing up for an introductory computer science class. The workshop took place on the second floor of Patterson Hall, and provided a warm and friendly environment. Acadia Computer Science Co-Presidents Hayly Thackeray and Mrugakshee Palwe led the event and encouraged everybody to discuss why they chose to come, and talk to the people around them. The program allowed students (and some faculty members) to explore programming in a nice environment. The event also provided catering which was kindly received by the participants.
Participants learned how to code a website and learned how to change font, headings, and pictures. They also learned how to read basic HTML, what headings were, and how to transfer code into a website. The project allowed for lots of creativity and gave people a way to express their interests via a website. While some made autobiographical websites, others made websites based on their interests, such as music, theatre, and sports. The interactive nature of the learning environment contributed to a fast paced exploration that brought people together. The program also discussed ways that people learn, and allowed people to design what felt familiar for them. After the workshop, it was interesting to see all of the ways that people could approach the same task differently. It was also interesting to see how many people found the event exciting and inviting. There are lots of great ways to get into computer science without taking a course in the field. Using websites to learn how to code is a great way to start.
HTML is especially fun, because it can show you a visual representation of what you have figured out to complement intuitive instructions. The event represented a combination of computer science and general learning aids, and enriched the Acadia campus. Such events promote inter-disciplinary education, allowing majors from sociology, English, and physics to come together to experience the same education. Such a simple workshop shows that it’s possible to combine lots of areas of study and that people can work together when it comes to computer science. The Computer Science Society is a great way for people to learn about what is happening in the scientific world, and for people to access education that could really help them in the future. Allowing people to gain hands on experience with coding opens doors for anybody that might want to pursue the field in later years.
Getting into computer science can be hard, because there aren’t a lot of ways for people to learn about code through the current education system. Elementary schools and middle schools are working on implementing computer science studies, but it is a difficult process. Attending a pop-up workshop with a local computer science group is a great way to learn more about the process of creating a website, or a piece of code. It’s also a great way to meet like-minded people. The event was fantastic, and received great turnout.
To learn more, email [email protected] or message the Society on Facebook (“Acadia Computer Science Society”).
