Today was the first day of class. We arrived 10 minutes laste to a room full of kids just sitting there waiting for us. The CEO of the school and the person supposed to welcome us/tell us the ropes failed to mention that we'd be starting a class promptly at 9, rather mentioned that it was "workshop" day and classes are starting next week. It was startling to arrive there in such a fashion but we made do.
I stood in front of the class and basically asked them about their coding experience and let them know, right off the bat, that coding is for everyone. I asked about their previous interests(math, music?) and related the logical thinking aspect of coding to whatever their interest may be.
Nate and I had written a script the night before because we've never taught before. I mostly stayed on script but veered off to keep the kids attention in certain parts of the delivery. They seemed genuinely excited, the teacher unquestioningly asked us what we needed.
Quite notable was the fact that for 20 kids in the classroom, there were only 2 girls. I asked the head of the school to go out in search of more girls who might w ant to try coding and let her know I could hold a special hour for them to give them information and get them interested.
All in all off to a good start, just got setup ready at the school to begin actually lecturing next week. Nate and I are doing 20 hours (10 hours each) that is, we are teaching together. I'm going to work with the beginners and he'll help the more advanced students. I think it will work out well.
