Computer Programming with Jessica S.

Hi, my name is Jessica and I’m an upcoming junior at the University of Wisconsin - Madison where I’m studying Computer Science! I was also a volunteer at my local Girls Who Code club where I taught programming to middle school girls. I love kids and understand how to nurture motivation. My philosophy is to teach kids the growth mindset, researched by Stanford psychologist Carol Dweck, which is the idea that our skills can grow and become better over time. It’s fundamental to children because it teaches them that intelligence is something within their control. My coursework includes Intro to C++, C++ Data Structures, Intro to Python, and Calculus 1-3. I also have experience in iOS development with Swift. I specifically only choose to teach Python to middle school students because it’s the most accessible language. I have found that C++ is too overwhelming and discouraging to beginners who try to learn it as a first language. Why not Scratch? Scratch is also a great starting point but once the basics are understood it can get boring since it’s limited in its applications. Python is as easy to read as English, yet powerful enough to make compelling projects. In other words, it’s the happy medium between Scratch and C++. I will make exceptions for high schoolers that want to learn C++ if they are Juniors or Seniors. 6th-12 grade only. No exceptions. If you’re wondering whether kids should learn programming, they should! Studies have found that learning to code raised aptitude in other areas such as reading and math. It also encourages creative problem-solving skills which can be used for life. To sum up, I’m an encouraging teacher who loves to help kids and students learn to code!