Role of The CS Educator

Teachers are usually prepared to be the expert in the subjects they teach, however for computer science it could be a different experience. Often students explore and go beyond, which should be expected and encouraged. This is a perfect opportunity for teachers to learn from their students and let the students teach each other. Students then learn to develop the practice of collaboration and finding solutions on their own or as a class.

As students guide their own learning experience it is good to recognize those student who are computer science experts and allow them to lead a lesson or demonstrate their expertise. The teacher’s role can then shift to supporting struggling students. Teachers can encourage other students to share work and practices not directly related to computer science, such as creativity, design and storytelling.

Students will face challenges or problem that they cannot quite figure. The teacher can then help students fill in the gaps, make the connections to prior knowledge and continue to present new content. It is important to recognize that students may know “how” to use the technology but the teacher can help to make sure the students are being productive with the technology.