iPads, MakerEd and More in Education

"Over the last three years, we’ve seen more than 7 million students around the world put down their schoolwork and take to the streets to demand climate change action. Could technology be the answer? This issue explores the interaction between sustainability and computing, from how we can interact with technology responsibly to its potential to mitigate climate change.

We delve into the research behind device-repair cafés and see repair put into action by a student in Malaysia for his local community, along with a deep dive into the question of technology obsolescence. We also share young people’s ideas for how technology can be used for good, showcasing sustainability-themed student projects and a school-based COP that was inspired by the annual UN conference.

Also in this issue:

* A physical computing challenge inspired by the TV show Baking Impossible
* Supporting a school in The Gambia to develop a computing curriculum
* Top tips for ensuring your primary e-safety curriculum is fit for purpose"

Download the free PDF copy here!

There are research teams around the world dedicated to finding a remedy for the growing plastic pollution crisis, but now it seems that one group of scientists have found a feasible answer -- and they stumbled upon it by accident. Researchers studying a newly-discovered bacterium found that with a few tweaks, the bug can be turned into a mutant enzyme that starts eating plastic in a matter of days, compared to the centuries it takes for plastic to break down in the ocean.

People are teaming up to fix stuff instead of throwing it away

Computer science is a foundational subject in today’s world that will benefit students in any career path. It not only gives them room to flex their creativity but also equips them with the tools to tackle some of the world’s most pressing problems.

How computer science is used and applied in the real world is a crucial part of learning computer science. That is why we’re focusing on #CSforGood as the theme for the Hour of Code this year. We can help students understand some of the challenges that people around the world face and inspire them to think more deeply about the role computer science can play in creating a more equitable and sustainable world.

I have been hard at work on this 31-day challenge, and I am so excited to share it with you! Rebecca, a middle school math and science teacher in the bay area, had a fabulous idea for Zero Waste October. It would be full of activities for students and teachers to talk about the global trash problem. 

It's similar to Plastic-Free July but focused more on students. Since July is in the summer, it's difficult to get kids involved. When Rebecca reached out to me about crafting a curriculum, I jumped at the chance.

It's inspired by the 30-Day Challenge I created with Andrea from Be Zero, but with a lot of new challenges specifically for students and kids. I really hope you enjoy it!

Grab a copy of the booklet below and save a copy of the calendar. Set it as your phone or tablet background so you can easily keep up.