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CEMC: CS ESCAPE

CEMC: CS Escape is an engaging, dynamic workshop series that introduces programming to people of gender identities under-represented in computer science.* Designed to spark interest in the field among students in Grade 8 from these groups, the workshop prepares participants to embark on their own programming project — an excellent opportunity for students to explore new ideas and build confidence in their abilities.

Students will learn basic computer science concepts using CoSpaces, a platform makes it easy to create interesting, interactive, 3-D animations that can be explored in virtual or augmented reality on various digital devices.

Intended Audience

People of gender identities under-represented in computer science, including but not limited to women, non-binary and trans folk* in Grade 8 who are interested in learning about programming and enjoy a challenge.

Dates and Location

The workshop will take place virtually over four weekly evening sessions on Tuesdays: January 10th, 17th, 24th, and 31st, 2022.

Event Details

Each session will be held virtually on Zoom from 7:30 p.m. until approximately 8:30 p.m.

  • By the end of the sessions, participants will have the tools to create a virtual escape room that they can share with friends.
  • Each session with begin with a lesson introducing students to important computer science concepts and will close with an opportunity for participants to ask questions.
  • Students are encouraged to sign up with a partner, but they may register as individuals as well.
  • Participants will be given a short task designed to introduce them to CoSpaces that they will be expected to complete before the first session.
  • Everyone who takes part in the workshop will be given a 6-month license for the Pro version of the CoSpaces platform which they can use to explore more at their own pace.

There will be optional virtual session times scheduled during the month of January for participants to join and ask individual questions about the projects they are working on. These sessions will be scheduled prior to the start of the workshop.

Registration

Registration for this event is now open until December 16th, 2022.

Register now

Note: Registration will close before this date if the event fills up. Space is limited.

*Why this Audience?

Mathematics and computer science are powerful tools, and diversity among mathematicians and computer scientists increases the potential for positive impact. One of the initiatives of the Centre for Education in Mathematics and Computing is to encourage better gender diversity in the field of mathematics and computer science. The CEMC encourages all people with gender identities under-represented in mathematics and computer science including women, non-binary and trans folk to apply to and participate in all of our events. We endeavour to make our events and accommodations welcoming to people of all gender identities in attendance.

Questions?

For more information, please contact our Events Team.