CS4NE podcast launches to support computer science education in Nebraska

CS4NE.org
CS4NE.org

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Education and Human Sciences is proud to announce the launch of CS4NE - Computer Science for Nebraska, a groundbreaking podcast dedicated to supporting K-12 educators in teaching computer science (CS). Hosted by Guy Trainin (UNL) and Kimberly Ingraham-Beck (Gretna Public Schools and the Computer Science Teachers Association), this innovative show addresses the unique challenges and opportunities within Nebraska's educational landscape.

CS4NE aims to provide practical insights, resources, and strategies for teachers looking to enhance their CS instruction. The podcast comes at a crucial time, as Nebraska recently mandated CS education for K-12 schools, with new graduation requirements set to take effect for the class of 2028.

"Our goal is to empower educators across Nebraska with the knowledge and tools they need to bring CS into their classrooms effectively," said Trainin. "We believe that by supporting teachers, we can ultimately provide better opportunities for students across our state."

The first season of CS4NE features a lineup of informative episodes, including:

  1. CS4NE Introduction: An overview of the podcast's mission and the hosts' personal journeys into CS education.
  2. New Required Nebraska Standards: A detailed discussion with Shaun Young from the Nebraska Department of Education about the recent legislation mandating CS education.
  3. conneCTION - A New Resource for Teachers: An interview with Ian Kollipara, describing a National Science Foundation-funded website offering free CS teaching resources.
  4. CS in Smaller Schools: Insights from Linda Schafer, a K-12 CS teacher, on developing robust CS programs in a small rural district.
    The podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube and other major podcast platforms. New episodes are released bi-weekly, offering continuous support and inspiration for educators.
For more information about CS4NE or to listen to the latest episodes, visit CS4NE.org.

About the Hosts
Guy Trainin, PhD, is a professor of education in the UNL Department of Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education. He focuses his research on teacher education, literacy integration with technology and the arts, and innovative learning technologies. In recent years, Trainin has been studying innovative language learning and equity in Nebraska, India, and China, focusing on CS, mobile devices, AI, and creativity.

Kimberly Ingraham-Beck is an experienced educator teaching at Gretna Public Schools. She is currently a CS teacher and director of eSports. She is the vice president of CSTA Nebraska, director of eSports at Prairie STEM, and adjunct information technology professor at Metro Community College.