In a time when technological advances shape our daily lives and drive economic growth, focusing on STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education in K-12 schools is not just a trend but a necessity. Initiatives such as that of the US Department of Education. YOU belong in STEM and the vision of the National Science Foundation for the STEM education of the future underscore a national commitment to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a technology-focused world, ensuring equitable access to opportunities that foster innovation and sustain the economy.
As the national spotlight shines on the critical importance of STEM education, educators are tasked with translating these broad goals into tangible experiences for students. Recently, EdSurge spoke with valerie brocksenior implementation manager at New York City Department of Education Computer Science for All (CS4All)about his journey with STEM education.
EdSurge: What experiences laid the foundation for your role as a leader in STEM education in the New York City Public Schools?
Brock: In 2017, after 10 years of teaching in the New York City Public Schools, the largest school district in the country, I transitioned to a “outside the classroom” position. I was tasked with providing reading intervention services for at-risk K-8 students. When my principal asked me if I would be interested in teaching one elective period per day for the middle school population, I suggested a STEM elective since I had just taught a summer full of STEM during the annual STEM programming in New York City.
Even though STEM is relatively new territory for me, I enthusiastically embraced the mission of igniting my students' curiosity and imagination. I took on many dynamic, hands-on projects: harnessing the sun's energy with homemade solar ovens, finding the magic of coding, and assembling fidget spinners.
Minecraft EducationThe block world became the undisputed champion of compromise. Some of my coworkers taught the after-school program in the building and had already successfully integrated Minecraft into their STEM curriculum. Recognizing students' enthusiasm for these pixelated realms, I experimented with them in my teaching practice.
My students were captivated by the game and together we created an unforgettable classroom experience and took victory in the annual Christmas door decorating contest with a Minecraft masterpiece. Witnessing a classroom filled with enthusiasm and brimming with knowledge was an educator's dream come true.
In 2018, my journey took a new turn when I assumed the role of Computer Science Education Manager, with the mission of spreading the seeds of meaningful computer science education across the vast educational landscape of the US Public Schools. New York City. Since 2015, CS4All has worked diligently to ensure that all New York City public school students learn computer science, with an emphasis on students who identify as girls, Black, and Latinx. For 2021, 91 percent of New York City schools offered computer science. (up from 76 percent in 2019).
Then, in 2020, in the midst of an upside-down world where screens became windows to knowledge, we noticed a spark: students, now with plenty of screen time, began teaching themselves coding skills. Accessibility had always been the obstacle that we could not overcome, until the pandemic gave us the key.
With new access to Minecraft Education for every student in the district through our district-wide Microsoft 365 licenses, we seized the moment to launch professional learning experiences for educators, fusing the beloved gaming experience with foundational computing skills.
What plans did you put in place to broaden your focus?
Our collaboration with Minecraft Education experts was essential in designing a comprehensive educational odyssey. Partner with Running Insight 2 (i2e), highly qualified educational technology consultants, connected us with nationwide experts in Minecraft education. It was imperative to get a facilitator who would skillfully navigate the digital landscapes and coding language of Minecraft. Additionally, we highlight the importance of educators having a solid understanding of computer science basics before delving into Minecraft. Ensuring the presence of a New York City Public Schools technical expert at each session ensured uninterrupted learning. To strengthen educators' understanding of Minecraft, we introduced a virtual learning sequence beginning with “Minecraft 101.”
Since Spring 2021, our journey has been an exciting one introducing upper elementary educators to the intersection of computer science and education in Minecraft. We quickly discovered the immense value of a meticulous approach: providing educators with a detailed agenda, a form to submit questions and concerns, and pre- and post-departure tickets. These resources not only guide educators through the learning process, but also allow us to gather feedback for continuous improvement and immediate support.
How have you managed to gain community support for these initiatives?
Recognizing the power of community and ongoing support, we established dedicated professional learning spaces tailored to Minecraft Education. These forums are hubs where educators can ask questions, exchange ideas, and gain wisdom from both their peers and seasoned experts at any time—resources that have proven invaluable.
Our dedication to improving computer science education continues to propel us forward, leading us to participate in other Minecraft educational initiatives, such as the citywide one. Minecraft Education Battle of the Districts, an esports competition where students come together to build a better New York. This affirms our fundamental position in this revolutionary approach to learning.
Can you walk us through some of the results of these efforts and what you hope to see in future successes?
Our initiatives have flourished, with around 300 educators from approximately 250 New York City public schools gaining skills on the Minecraft Education platform through our programs. This success has facilitated new collaborations, expanding the benefits for students beyond initial expectations. In December 2023, we hosted our inaugural city-wide coding event, collaborating with logic academyengaging students from more than 400 New York City public schools in the ai” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener nofollow”>Hour of Code: Generation ai event. Students explored the vast possibilities of ai and learned about the importance of creating equitable and trustworthy technology. They tackled coding challenges, solved interesting puzzles, and applied ethical ai concepts. Educators and students are still repeating the session in class as of today!
Principals at several elementary schools have reached out to me to make sure Minecraft Education is in their programming. Teachers have informed me that they are forming coding clubs after school and at lunchtime. Our city Minecraft Battle of the Districts Educational Challenge has also reached new heights. For the first time, we received submissions from over 475 school teams, from kindergarten students to 12th graders. And recently, a Manhattan teacher excitedly shared that his class of second graders are not only engrossed in Minecraft but are also learning to code.
As we look to the future of computer science education, we aim to sustain and enhance our partnerships with external organizations, offering diverse and enriching experiences for both students and educators. We are also focused on expanding our internal offering, encompassing professional development, instructional training and broad support for teachers and school leaders. These initiatives aim to strengthen the adoption and effectiveness of computer science education, starting at the elementary level.
We look forward to leveraging Minecraft's extensive ai-related activities to foster a comprehensive understanding of ethical ai among all students. We are excited about the advancements and innovations that await computer science education.
