Computer Science Education Week is always one of my favorite times of the school year. It gives students a chance to see how computer science connects to the work we do every day. More importantly, it helps them feel like they’re part of something bigger—an event happening in schools all over the country. That sense of involvement really motivates students to try new things, take risks, and show off what they already know.

Hands-On Learning with Piper

CSEd Week is the perfect time to bring out our Piper kits and let students dive into hands-on exploration. They build circuits, program sensors, and experiment with designs that tie directly into engineering and robotics concepts. My robotics students might run a short autonomous challenge, while aviation students work on simple coded indicators inspired by cockpit systems.

What I love most is seeing how students use Piper tools in ways I never planned. One group turned a Piper Make board into a basic flight-training indicator using LEDs and simple code. Another repurposed some sensors to collect environmental data for a side project. Those creative “off-label” uses show just how naturally students can connect computer science to real-world ideas.

Encouraging Experimentation and Creativity

My students love to mix and match their materials. As they get more comfortable with computer science, they become more willing to experiment with bigger, more complex projects. As a teacher, I actively seek products that work well with others. The more students can do with a single tool, the better!

CSEd Week gives them the freedom to learn outside the boundaries they have during “normal weeks.” It’s a chance to try new challenges, explore fresh ideas, and push their skills in exciting directions.

A Celebration of STEM

Throughout the week, we fill the classroom with challenges, showcases, quick competitions, and opportunities for students to participate. Even small additions - posters, announcements, shared activities - help create the feeling that they’re part of a real celebration of STEM.

CSEd Week reminds students that computer science isn’t just a class. It’s a skillset they can use in almost any educational path, as well as whatever future they choose to build. Watching them discover that is what makes the week so meaningful.

About the Author

Brooke Rooney is a CTE STEM teacher in Southwest Oklahoma. She teaches pre-engineering, robotics, CAD, and Aviation. A Maker herself, she believes in hands-on learning where students can find answers to their own questions.