Tag: coding

National Coding Week 2020

Karin, Hampshire LibrariesLeave a comment

14 – 20 September 2020

National Coding Week is a volunteer-led organisation founded in 2014. It aims to help build people’s confidence and skills by encouraging volunteers to run fun and engaging digital events.

CodingWeek.org

Code Club was founded in 2012 to assist children with learning coding skills with free after school clubs. In these clubs children learn to create games, animations, and web pages using Scratch, Python, or HTML/CSS.

Many of our libraries (normally) host a range of code clubs – some even host multiple ones! As we continue to follow government guidelines, we have yet been able to start them up again in our libraries, but we have been running code club over on our Facebook page sense April! Why not check it out?
We started with Scratch, and are now working on Micro:bits – did you know you can borrow Micro:bits from your local library?

We may not be able to do taster sessions in our libraries this National Coding Week, but don’t despair! We will instead be bringing the taster sessions to you; right here on our blog!
So enjoy these videos, have a go at coding and, most importantly; have fun!

What are the different coding programs?

A closer look at Scratch

A closer look at Micro:bits

Taster session – a special Coding week project

If you want books about coding, there are plenty available in our libraries. You can reserve them, for a small charge, ask for them with your Ready Reads or pick some up next time you are visiting the library! They are a great read for any young coder to get ideas, tips and inspiration for their future projects. Or for parents or carers who would like to be able to help their children on their coding journey.

Start your coding journey today!

National Coding Week

GilbertLeave a comment

16 – 22 September 2019

“National Coding Week is a volunteer-led organisation founded in 2014. It aims to help build people’s confidence and skills by encouraging volunteers to run fun and engaging digital events.”  CodingWeek.org

Code Club was founded in 2012 to assist children with learning coding skills with free after school clubs. In these clubs children learn to create games, animations, and web pages using Scratch, Python, or HTML/CSS.

Code Clubs in Libraries

Did you know most Hampshire libraries hold their own Code Clubs for your children? These are fun sessions for children to create their own interactive games and animations. It is also a fantastic opportunity to meet other children of a similar age and learn new skills. To find out where and when sessions are held near you, pop into your local library or send them a message through their Facebook page.

What Code Club books are available in Hampshires libraries?

If you want Books about Coding, there are plenty available on the library catalogue.

Coding in Scratch for Beginners – Rachel Ziter, An Unofficial Guide to Coding with Minecraft – Avaro Scrivano, Webpage Design – Clive Gifford

Micro:bit

Have you heard of a Micro:bit? These are pocket size computers that you can borrow from your library for free! If you would like to give it a try, have a look where you can borrow a Micro:bit from.

Volunteering at Code Club

Would you like to volunteer to help at a Code Club at your local library? Our code clubs have proven very popular and we’re thrilled to be able to offer these sessions to children, something that wouldn’t be possible without our lovely volunteers. We’re always looking for more volunteers; volunteers who know one or more coding program, who like working with children and who are not only friendly, but patient too. If this sounds like you, why not volunteer with Code Club by heading over to this website?

We spoke to one of our Code Club volunteers and this is what they had to say:

  • What do you find rewarding about volunteering for code club?

I like sharing my enthusiasm for computing with the younger generation – basically its an excuse to be a kid again and have fun ! 

  • What made you want to volunteer in the first place?

Initially to encourage my own two daughters to get into coding but after starting as a volunteer and getting to know the children that attended I began to feel a real sense of guardianship and responsibility towards their own coding journeys . Their progress encourages you to share with them the knowledge that will help them reach the next level (without losing too many lives or turtles 🐢 !) The code club curiosity door is always open – try it and see what happens! 

  • Why should others volunteer?

A sense of community, the feel good factor ! It’s sociable and there is never a dull moment as the children get to know you and each other and can share jokes and take part in healthy competition !

  • What have you learnt since starting their volunteering?

How to run the coding club in a style that suits us as volunteers (plays towards our strengths) and how to use the tools and projects provided by the code club organisation. I have learnt also that there are some great kids in Totton who are funny and smart and I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to teach them a bit about coding 🙂 

Ringwood Library Code Club donation

Ringwood Library were recently given an extremely generous donation towards their Code Club. Here’s what they had to say: “We are absolutely delighted that the Rotary Club of Ringwood very kindly donated a significant sum of money to enable us to purchase our own Code Club computers. Members of the Rotary Club and our Mayor Tony Ring visited us to see the new computers in use by our keen, young coders. It gave us an opportunity to say a massive ‘Thank You’ to them for their incredible support”.

National Coding Week

Gilbert3 Comments

National Coding Week is an awareness week running from Monday 18th to Friday 22nd September, focusing on generating confidence in computers and technology.

Children are part of a confident Digital Generation having grown up with the internet, smart phones and coding classes. However, many adults have missed out on the digital revolution and feel left behind. The aim of National Coding Week is to give adults the opportunity to learn some digital skills.

If you’re very new to computers, thank you for finding us!

Learning sessions:

In your local branches, you can find a number of helpful learning sessions, and you can click here to browse. You will find many of our county libraries events and courses here, but always ask in branch if you can’t see what you need.

There’s lots of help available, whether it’s for a first time taster or developing particular skills. There’s specialist courses for beginners and help for senior learners on a range of devices and formats.

To try coding at home scroll down to the bottom to see the library Service’s very newest digital learning experience: Micro:bit Lending!

Computer Learning in the Online Catalogue:

There’s loads to find in your local library and you can see all of Hampshire Libraries’ online catalogue all in one place right by clicking here. Below is a selection on computer basics, using new devices such as tablets or smart phones, and even with creating your own coding, games or software:

Android tablets / by Dan Gookin

It introduces you to the features of all Android tablets and details the nuances of what makes a tablet more than a smartphone yet different from a computer.

MacBook for dummies / by Mark Chambers.

Drawing and painting on the iPad / Diana Seidl

The iPad is an incredible tool, but how can an artist unlock its exciting and creative potential? This book explains, in simple terms, step-by-step, all the processes and techniques it offers.

And not forgetting our in-branch selection of magazines!

Computer Active Magazine, Dennis Publishing Ltd 2017

Bimonthly news and user guide

eBooks – Free to download:

If you enjoy the convenience of reading eBooks on our device, you’ve got to look at our growing collection! Our quick and easy eBooks download service is another great place to develop your skills. Use the same library card, download your device’s app, and choose away! Titles can download in minutes and give you the advice when and wherever you need it! If you need any assistance, visit our help section.

You can even download title to your smartphone with the new Libby service, click here for more details.

Getting Started with Coding by Camille McCue
Get Creative with Code!

Exploring iPad by Galen Gruman

The iPad combines the best of your favorite gadgets into one amazing ultraportable touch device.

 

Windows 10 For Seniors For Dummies by Peter Weverka

Your clear-cut, easy-to-follow guide to Windows 10

eMagazines:

And of course we’re very glad to share our eMagazines collection, available via our Digital Library. Select the Computers and Technology section and download your mag choice for free!

 

Micro:bit Lending:

And finally, we’re very excited to announce our newest digital lending service Micro:bit Lending!

In the spirit of Coding Week, Hampshire Library Service is launching micro:bit lending very soon. A micro:bit is a small programmable computer, designed to make learning and teaching easy and fun. Micro:bits can be used for all sorts of cool creations, from robots to musical instruments.

 

These micro:bit packs will be available for customers to borrow for a loan period of 4 weeks. The packs will include: 1 micro:bit, USB cables, Battery packs and a start up leaflet. The packs are coming to larger libraries and Discovery Centres the week commencing Monday 25th September, and are then being rolled out to other branches the week commencing 2nd October.

Just ask in your local branch for more information!

We hope you enjoy lots of digital learning and leisure, the library service really is the best place to get started!

Welcome To The Makery!

Gilbert8 Comments

Open sessions for a brand new learning experience are now available in Fareham and Fleet Libraries…

The Makery is a flexible digital space which has been equipped with high specification equipment. The Makery was created for technical enthusiasts and amateurs alike to learn and develop new skills and experiment with creative digital concepts in a collaborative style using: Apple iMacs running Sketch Up Pro and Adobe Creative Cloud, Apple iPads, Lego EV3 Robotics, Raspberry Pi and Crumble kits for explore coding, electronics and the world of micro computers, 3D printing, and more!

The Makery has an education focus, with taught sessions offered at a charge. These sessions will introduce and deliver STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) to the community. The sessions will be in self discovery format which will be planned and lead by a member of the Makery team.

Sound interesting? Read on and find out how to get involved!

The Fareham Makery is offering open session (14+) (£10.00 per morning or afternoon session)

Open session (14+) (£10.00 per morning or afternoon session)

You must be a library member to use the Makery, open sessions access available to buy in Fareham and Fleet Libraries only – but coming soon to Hantsweb Shop online.

Open sessions include:
• Access to The Makery (First come, first serve basis dependant on room and equipment capacity)
• Priority booking for specialist workshops
• Access to the Makery team to support your session
• Access to dedicated workshops delivered by the Makery team
• Access to maintained workspaces with latest equipment
• Use of 27’’ iMACS
• Flexible use of full Adobe creative cloud package for video editing, photoshop, app creation and much more
• Flexible use of SketchUp 3D and specialist animation software
• Windows 10 laptops with Microsoft Office and coding software
• iPads
• Access to 3D printer
• Access to Virtual Reality HTC Vive Rig
• Use of Raspberry Pis
• Use of Crumble electronics kits
• Use of Lego Robotics EV3 kits
• Volunteering and personal development opportunities through the Makery (contact the team for more information)
• Support network for local entrepreneurs
• Opportunity to network with a local likeminded maker community

Open Sessions (14+) available from Monday 4 September 2017:
(£10.00 per morning or afternoon session)

Tuesday 2:00pm – 4:30pm
Wednesday 2:00pm – 4:30pm
Thursday 1:30pm – 4:00pm
Friday 9:30am – 12:00pm, 1:00pm – 3:30pm, 4:00pm – 6:30pm
Saturday 2:00pm – 4:30pm

The programme is really starting to come together at the 2 Makery sites. The new timetables apply at all times outside of School holidays.  Please click on the timetables to view them larger:

Led Sessions available from Monday 18 September 2017:

After School Makery Club
Suitable for ages 8 to 13
£8
Mondays 4:30pm – 6:30pm and Thursdays 4:30pm – 6:30pm
Taster sessions to spark you interest in a different topic each week. Write a programme on our Raspberry Pis, teach a Lego robot to beat a challenge or learn about another world with our VR rig.

Adult Digital Session
Suitable for ages 21+
£8
Mondays 2pm – 4pm
Get started on a new hobby. Introductions to a different topic each week. Learn more about 3D design tools, photo editing or coding with a practical application.

Parent and Child Creative Session
Suitable for ages 8-13
£14 for child and accompanying adult.
Saturdays, 9:30am – 1:00pm
A great chance to explore a digital world for you and your child. Together you can design and build a gadget with our Crumble kits or make your own animated story. Giving you an insight into your child’s digital world.

Home Education Session
£18 per session for child, £60 per 4-week course.
Tuesdays 9:30am – 1pm
These are structured sessions each week featuring Lego Robotics, Coding using Scratch and Python on our Raspberry Pi micro Computers, and Crumble electronics kits – coding with physical components.

Remember, open sessions are available to buy in Fareham Library branch only – coming soon to the Hantsweb Shop online.

The Fleet Makery is offering open sessions:

Open sessions access:
Tuesday 11am – 2pm & 2.30pm – 5.30pm, £12
Thursday 11am – 2pm & 2.30pm – 5.30pm, £12
Saturday 2pm – 4pm, £8

Open session tickets only available at Fleet and Fareham Libraries  – coming soon to the Hantsweb Shop online.

Open sessions include:
• Access to The Makery and its equipment (First come, first serve basis dependant on room and equipment capacity)
• Access to maintained workspaces with latest equipment
• Access to the Makery team to support your session
• Access to dedicated workshops delivered by the Makery team
• Use of 27’’ iMACS
• Flexible use of full Adobe creative cloud package for video editing, photoshop, app creation and much more
• Flexible use of SketchUp 3D and specialist animation software
• Windows 10 laptops with Microsoft Office and coding software
• iPads
• Access to 3D printer
• Use of Raspberry Pis
• Use of Crumble electronics kits
• Use of Lego Robotics EV3 kits
• Volunteering and personal development opportunities through The Makery (contact the team for more information)
• Support network for local entrepreneurs
• Opportunity to network with a local like minded maker community

Open sessions access:
 Tuesday 11am – 2pm & 2.30pm – 5.30pm, £12
Thursday 11am – 2pm & 2.30pm – 5.30pm, £12
Saturday 2pm – 4pm, £8

Adult Digital Session
Suitable for ages 21+
£8
Wednesdays from 20 Sep, 2:30pm – 4:30pm
Get started on a new hobby. Introductions to a different topic each week. Learn more about 3D design tools, photo editing or coding with a practical application.

Parent and Child Creative Session
Suitable for ages 8-13
£14 for child & accompanying adult
Fortnightly Saturdays, 9:30am – 1pm
A great chance to explore a digital world for you and your child. Together you can design and build a gadget with our Crumble kits or make your own animated story. Giving you an insight into your child’s digital world.

Remember, Membership and open sessions tickets only available at Fleet and Fareham Libraries  – coming soon to the Hantsweb Shop online.

For future news and announcements, register here.

DOTS – our pilot iPad Lending Service

Gilbert8 Comments

Thanks to nearly £250,000 awarded by Arts Council England, we have  launched Library DOTS  (Digital; Options, Training and Support), our tablet computer lending project to help tackle social isolation and improve digital literacy.

We have purchased 120 3G enabled tablets which are available for eligible Hampshire residents for a four week loan period, during which training will be provided.

The tablets are pre-loaded with relevant online library services, and useful applications linking to themes such as health and well being and information about local communities and services.

Five part-time co-ordinators are running the project and training and supporting residents in using the tablets.

The tablets are targeted at people and places experiencing disadvantage, which include social and digital isolation, lone parenting, people on low incomes, and people for whom English is not their first language.

It’s estimated around 800 library customers and their families will benefit from the project. Residents will need to join the library to take part, if they’re not already members. Other tablet borrowing criteria include:

  • Aged 18 years and over
  • Attend 2 Hampshire Libraries ‘Get to Know Your DOTS tablet’ training sessions
  • Agree to complete the DOTS project feedback form and return it along with the device at the end of the loan period.

For a referral to your local DOTS coordinator speak to staff inside your library.