The Penticton Public Library is turning to crowdfunding to support a new educational program.
The library has launched a GoFundMe to raise money for its After School Coding Club, which launches this fall.
“Penticton currently does not have a similar program that is accessible and free. Our goal is to provide youth with opportunities to explore these technologies while supporting education and creative exploration,” said chief librarian Heather Buzzell.
The Coding Club is part of the STEAM movement — Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math — programs that help develop digital literacy skills in a fun environment.
The first step in developing this program for kids (aged 8-12) in Penticton is the launch of the After School Coding Club. This pilot project will introduce 10 students to the fun, educational, and skill-building art of coding.
“This is a great opportunity to teach kids the basics of coding, a skill that is in high demand,” said Buzzell. “Hopefully there are some budding programmers out there who will be inspired to create.”
Contributions to the $5000 GoFundMe campaign will go towards the purchase of hardware, including Chromebooks, Makey Makey style invention kits, coding board games and more fun devices for kids to code. The technologies selected will engage all levels of interest and ability.
To donate, visit: https://www.gofundme.com/pplcodingcamp