FlexStack: Student-Centered Computing 2 - Coding Voice and Choice with Project-Based Learning

  • Overview
  • Course Content
  • Requirements & Materials
Overview

FlexStack: Student-Centered Computing 2 - Coding Voice and Choice with Project-Based Learning

Course Description

The second course in the FlexStack: Student-Centered Computing Through Innovative Teaching Certificate [hyperlink to certificate page] invites computer science educators to explore the intersection of coding, creativity, and music through a hands-on, project-based experience. Using the Student-Centered Computing curriculum and the EarSketch platform, instructors will guide learners in building a Lo-fi MP3 Music Player—combining music composition with web development using HTML and JavaScript or Python. Ideal as a capstone project, this training also equips educators with strategies to support student creativity, equity, and engagement. It includes guidance on the Create Performance Task for participating Advanced Placement Computer Science Principles (AP CSP) teachers.

 

Course Content

Introduction to EarSketch and Music-Based Coding

  • Overview of EarSketch and its educational applications
  • Introduction to makeBeat() and working with sound clips
  • Using loops to create musical patterns
  • Hands-on: Compose a short beat-driven song

Programming Logic and Abstractions

  • Implementing conditionals to add interactivity
  • Creating custom functions for modular code
  • Understanding and applying abstraction
  • Project Launch: Begin Lo-fi Music Player

Data Structures and Project Completion

  • Introduction to lists and their role in music sequencing
  • Finalizing the Lo-fi Music Player project
  • Peer sharing and feedback
  • Classroom integration strategies for Capstone projects and AP CSP Create Task alignment      

Capstone and/or Create Task Presentation and Reflection

  • Finalizing and presenting team projects
  • Reflecting on learning outcomes and project development
Requirements & Materials

Prerequisites

REQUIRED:

  • A Windows or Mac laptop with a webcam is required to participate in the course. Tablets or other devices are not supported. Recommended: Additional monitor.
  • Familiarity with using a computer and adequate typing ability.
  • Course registration requires an approved application and advisor meeting.
  • Participants are expected to have their cameras on during the interactive sessions and must attend 80% of the sessions to pass the course.

Materials

PROVIDED (Student will receive):

  • Access to Canvas Learning

Session Details

Who Should Attend

This course is designed for AP CSP/CSP teachers; computer science educators; and Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CSTAE) instructors. No coding experience is needed, just a curiosity and passion for music and code.

A person working on a computer

What You Will Learn

  • Exploration of EarSketch, a dynamic platform blending coding and music for student engagement
  • Application of Student-Centered Computing strategies like project-based learning and student voice
  • Lo-fi MP3 Player project that uses HTML and JavaScript or Python, providing a student perspective and applications for a capstone project or AP CSP Create Task

 

A person and person sitting at a desk with computers

How You Will Benefit

  • Lead a creative, standards-aligned Create Task/Capstone project integrating music, web development, and CS.
  • Use EarSketch, HTML, JavaScript, and Python to strengthen technical skills through hands-on coding.
  • Gain insight into the student experience by completing the same coding tasks.
  • Create a classroom-ready example aligned with the AP CSP Create Task.
  • Foster creativity by connecting coding with students’ cultural and personal interests.
  • Earn a professional credential and stipend to support instructional growth.

TRAIN AT YOUR LOCATION

We enable employers to provide specialized, on-location training on their own timetables. Our world-renowned experts can create unique content that meets your employees' specific needs. We also have the ability to deliver courses via web conferencing or on-demand online videos. For 15 or more students, it is more cost-effective for us to come to you.

  • Save Money
  • Flexible Schedule
  • Group Training
  • Customize Content
  • On-Site Training
  • Earn a Certificate
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