Teaching Python - podcast cover

Teaching Python

Sean Tibor and Kelly Paredeswww.teachingpython.fm
Welcome to "Teaching Python Podcast,” the go-to podcast for anyone interested in the intersection of education and coding. Hosted by Kelly Paredes and Sean Tibor, this podcast dives into the thrills and challenges of teaching middle school computer science through the engaging and versatile Python programming language. About the Hosts: Kelly Paredes brings a wealth of global experience in curriculum design and currently inspires sixth and eighth graders at Pine Crest School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Celebrating her seventh year of integrating Python into her teaching, Kelly has a knack for making complex concepts accessible and exciting. Sean Tibor, a Senior Cloud Engineer at Mondelez International, draws from a rich background that spans marketing, database design, and digital agency leadership. Having taught Python to seventh and eighth graders at Pine Crest School, Sean now extends his expertise by supporting interns and tutoring students in Python. Explore with Us: * Engaging Lessons: Discover how we make Python programming both fun and accessible for young learners, equipping them with the skills to tackle real-world problems. * Classroom Insights: Experience our journey through both triumphs and trials in the classroom, and learn what it takes to foster a vibrant learning environment. * Expert Interviews: Gain valuable perspectives from interviews with fellow educators and industry experts, who share their top strategies and success stories in coding education.

Episodes

Episode 146: PSF Education Outreach Workgroup and the Education Summit

In episode 146 of Teaching Python, hosts Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster Perez delve into the newly established Python Education and Outreach Work Group, featuring guests Cheuk Ting Ho and Keith Murray. The group, aimed at enhancing Python education within the community, outlines its mission to gather feedback on educational resources and support initiatives like the Education Summit at PyCon US. Keith and Cheuk discuss their backgrounds and roles within the Python Software Foundation, emphasizing...

Jan 21, 202553 minEp. 146

Episode 145: The Bigger Picture of Teaching Python

In episode 145 of Teaching Python, Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes celebrate their six-year podcast anniversary and discuss the shifts within computer science education and the growing influence of AI. They both reflect on the podcast’s journey, their experiences with Blue Sky, and the milestone of over 500,000 downloads. The conversation delves into the changing landscape of tech roles, emphasizing the importance of foundational coding skills and computational thinking, regardless of emer...

Jan 13, 20251 hr 2 minEp. 145

Episode 144: Python in Africa with Kudzayi Bamhare

In episode 144 of Teaching Python, hosts Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes are joined by special guest Kudzayi Bamhare from Zimbabwe. They dive into the important topic of Python education as a driver of innovation in Africa, focusing specifically on the challenges and opportunities in Zimbabwe. The conversation covers how coding communities are forming and thriving despite various hurdles, and how inclusive environments can foster learning and growth in the tech industry. Kudzayi shares his...

Jan 06, 202553 minEp. 144

Episode 143: Computational Thinking 2.0 with Dr. John Chapin

In Episode 143 of Teaching Python, hosts Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes engage in a compelling conversation with Dr. John Chapin, a renowned computer science educator and presenter at CSTA. As the CS Pathway Leader at the Academies of Loudoun, Dr. Chapin brings over a decade of experience in primary and secondary education, creating and implementing rigorous curricula for post-AP CS students. He shares insights into the transformative power of Computational Thinking 2.0, emphasizing the i...

Dec 30, 202456 minEp. 143

Episode 142: Middle School Magic: Integrating AI, Data Science, and Computational Thinking with Kelly Powers

In Episode 142 of Teaching Python, hosts Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes are joined by Kelly Powers, a fellow middle school educator and curriculum designer, to explore the dynamic world of middle school instruction. As a passionate advocate for computational thinking, Powers shares valuable insights on introducing students to the concepts of AI, data science, and cybersecurity in a way that is both rigorous and joyful. Topics Covered Engaging Middle School Students: Strategies for capturi...

Dec 22, 20241 hrEp. 142

Episode 141: Unlocking Python Expertise with Trey Hunner

Join hosts Kelly Schuster-Paredes and Sean Tibor as they welcome esteemed Python expert Trey Hunner to the show. This episode is a delightful mix of practical insights, engaging stories, and thought-provoking discussions about Python and teaching. Trey shares his experiences with listeners, starting with his recent venture into launching a 10-week Python course called Python High Five. He talks about the excitement and challenges of teaching across different time zones with this unique setup, hi...

Dec 14, 202452 minEp. 141

Episode 140: Girls Programming Network with Renee Noble

In this episode of Teaching Python, Sean and Kelly are joined by Renee Noble, a dynamic Microsoft Cloud Advocate and CEO of a nonprofit dedicated to helping women and gender-diverse individuals learn to code. The discussion delves into Renee's inspiring journey from chemical engineering to tech advocacy, her role in the Girls Programming Network (GPN), and how she has helped thousands of individuals build their coding skills and confidence. Renee emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive a...

Dec 01, 20241 hr 1 minEp. 140

Episode 139: Code Your Dreams with Brianne Caplan

In Episode 139 of Teaching Python, hosts Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes welcome back Brianne Caplan, the dynamic founder of Code Your Dreams. The conversation explores the exciting advancements in coding education since Brianne's last appearance in 2019. They delve into the importance of blending play and learning, the impact of generative AI, and the power of community-driven innovation. Brianne shares inspiring success stories from students of all ages, from first graders creating mindf...

Nov 24, 202445 minEp. 139

Episode 138: Innovative Coding Education with Pamela Fox

In episode 138 of Teaching Python, hosts Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes welcome Pamela Fox, a Principal Developer Advocate at Microsoft, to discuss the dynamic world of teaching, coding, and creating. Pamela shares her experiences working with Python in the cloud, emphasizing the various applications from serverless functions to web application backends using frameworks like Flask and Django. This episode provides a comprehensive look at how cloud-based environments like GitHub CodeSpaces...

Sep 30, 202456 minEp. 138

Episode 137: Lifelong Learning with Kelsey Hightower

In this insightful episode of Teaching Python, hosts Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes engage in a dynamic conversation with the eminent Kelsey Hightower. The episode delves into Hightower's journey from self-taught programmer to distinguished engineer at Google, touching on the significance of lifelong learning and the non-traditional paths that many successful technologists follow. Hightower's anecdotes are not only inspiring but also provide valuable lessons on perseverance and the import...

Aug 18, 202448 minEp. 137

Episode 136: Learning Python with Dr. Chuck

Summary This episode features a conversation with Dr. Chuck Severance about making programming accessible to everyone, the importance of practical applications in learning, and the potential of remote internships in programming education. Description In this episode of Teaching Python, hosts Kelly Schuster-Paredes and Sean Tibor chat with Dr. Chuck Severance, widely known as Dr. Chuck, about his innovative approaches to make Python and programming accessible to everyone. They discuss Dr. Chuck's...

Aug 11, 202455 minEp. 136

Episode 135: Python for Lawyers

In this episode of Teaching Python, hosts Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes dive deep into the innovative intersection of law and coding with special guests Morgan Gray and Wes Oliver from Duquesne University's School of Law. This fascinating conversation explores how Python programming is being integrated into the law curriculum to enhance the analytical and information processing skills of law students. The episode kicks off with introductions and personal anecdotes, setting the stage for ...

Jul 08, 202452 minEp. 135

Episode 134: Interview with Jay Miller

In this episode, we have a candid conversation with Jay Miller, the founder of Black Python Devs. Jay shares his journey into the tech world, highlighting the inspiration behind starting Black Python Devs and the essential role it plays in extending the reach of the Python community into the black ecosystem. We discuss how his organization fosters safe, equitable, and accessible environments for Black developers, breaking down barriers and creating pathways for new talent to enter and thrive in ...

Jul 01, 20241 hr 7 minEp. 134

Episode 133: Live from PyCon 2024

In this special episode of Teaching Python, hosts Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes broadcast live from PyCon US 2024, exploring the significant role educators play within the Python community. The hosts discuss the importance of engaging more educators at PyCon and other Python conferences, addressing the challenges and barriers educators face such as financial constraints, time commitments, and overcoming imposter syndrome. With contributions from a live audience, the episode delves into p...

Jun 12, 202433 minEp. 133

Episode 132: Getting Non-Coding Teachers into CS

Join us in an enlightening conversation with Dora Palfi, co-founder of Imagi, and Chelsea Clagg, an instructional technology coach from Frederick County, Virginia, who share their experiences with making coding education more inclusive and accessible. Learn about the challenges and triumphs of implementing coding programs in schools, and how tools like the Imagi Charm are designed to make coding tangible and relatable for students. Discover how non-coder teachers are overcoming their hesitations...

May 28, 202439 minEp. 132

Episode 131: Lightning Talks

In the latest episode of Teaching Python, “Episode 131: Embracing the Spark with Lightning Talks,” hosts Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes delve into how the concise and dynamic format of Lightning Talks can revolutionize teaching and learning. Beyond the light-hearted introduction that sets the tone for a spirited exchange, the episode offers a deep dive into the essence of Lightning Talks. Through engaging discussions, Sean and Kelly share personal insights and practical examples of incorp...

May 15, 202441 minEp. 131

Episode 130: Coding is Dead?

In this episode, we grapple with the provocative question: Is coding still relevant in a rapidly evolving world dominated by generative AI? Our engaging panel discussion features insights from Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes, hosts and creators of the renowned Teaching Python podcast, along with a lineup of distinguished guests. Each voice adds a unique perspective on how AI is reshaping the landscape of coding and education. Joining the discussion, we have Michael Kennedy from the Talk Py...

Apr 28, 20241 hr 6 minEp. 130

Episode 129: Quickbite: Live Coding and Codealongs

Join Sean and Kelly in this QuickBites episode as they explore the technique of live coding presentations in education. They highlight the cognitive benefits, such as active learning and enhanced understanding, as well as the engagement and communication fostered through this teaching method. The conversation covers the importance of error normalization, metacognition, critical thinking, and student participation, emphasizing the role live coding plays in empowering students to solve problems an...

Mar 29, 202426 minEp. 129

Episode 128: From Blocks to Code with PickCode

In episode 128 of Teaching Python, hosts Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes dive into the world of coding education, focusing on the journey from block to text coding. They are joined by Charlie Meyer, co-founder and CEO of Pick Code, to discuss strategies and tools that make learning to code an engaging and enjoyable experience for students. The conversation also covers personal anecdotes from the hosts and guest, emphasizing the balance between fun and learning in coding education. Today's ...

Mar 24, 202442 minEp. 128

Episode 127: Setting Goals

This episode of Teaching Python is a quick bite about setting goals. Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes discuss the importance of goal setting and how it can lead to personal and professional growth. They explore different types of goals, such as accomplishment goals and transformative goals, and share strategies for setting and achieving them. The episode emphasizes the benefits of goal setting in education, including improved academic outcomes, increased motivation, and the development of c...

Mar 02, 202426 minEp. 127

Episode 126: Projects and Portfolios

In Episode 126 of the "Teaching Python" podcast, hosts Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes delve into the fascinating realm of projects and portfolios for young coders. Expanding on the importance of showcasing coding skills, they explore how portfolios act as a powerful tool to demonstrate creativity, discipline, and coding standards. By creating a portfolio, students can present a comprehensive view of their work, allowing others to peek into their coding thought process and evaluate their u...

Feb 19, 202426 minEp. 126

Episode 125: Microlearning

In episode 125 of Teaching Python, hosts Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes dive into the concept of micro learning, discussing its benefits in fostering long-term memory retention and profound comprehension. The hosts advocate formalizing micro learning--breaking down topics into approachable, bite-sized segments--and discuss its application in the move towards more immediate, more specific, and ultimately more impactful and rewarding feedback. The discussion also covers the idea of 'ladderi...

Feb 05, 202437 minEp. 125

Episode 124: Motivated with Coding in the World of AI

In this episode, Sean and Kelly focus on maintaining engagement in a pedagogical and professional setting during interaction with AI. They share meaningful anecdotes from their respective fields, offering a variety of methods to increase productivity and interest. Kelly, as an educator, discusses including the students in the technology integrations by letting them understand and contribute to the process. Sean, from a developer perspective, emphasizes on the importance of accountability, leanin...

Jan 14, 202449 minEp. 124

Episode 123: Five Year Anniversary

In this commemorative episode, Kelly and Sean celebrate their fifth year at Teaching Python. They reflect upon the origins of the podcast, how it has evolved, successes and challenges they've faced, and valuable lessons learned over the years. This episode underscores the importance of embracing continued learning, of staying persistent, and validates the magic of teaching and learning alongside students.

Jan 02, 202439 minEp. 123

Episode 122: Ethics of Artificial Intelligence

In Episode 122 of Teaching Python, hosts Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes, explore the multifaceted role of AI in society together with their special guest, Cecilia Danesi. An expert in AI ethics and social impact, Cecilia shares in depth knowledge and interesting insights on the influence AI wields in different aspects of society. The episode covers a broad range of topics underlining the importance of AI in education, the concerns around algorithmic bias, the hard-hitting implications of ...

Dec 16, 202333 minEp. 122

Episode 121: The Board of Knowledge

In this episode of Teaching Python, hosts Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes dive into the world of teaching coding with their special guest, the Board of Knowledge. This unique teaching tool, a large whiteboard spanning the back wall of their computer science classroom, is a visual representation of coding concepts and serves as a valuable resource for sixth graders. Sean and Kelly explore how the Board of Knowledge reduces cognitive load, scaffolds learning, and utilizes dual coding techniq...

Nov 24, 202317 minEp. 121

Episode 120: Quick Bites: Failing

Episode 120: The Role of Failure in Learning In this episode of the Teaching Python podcast, co-hosts Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster Paredes discuss the significance of failure in learning. They assert that failure is a crucial part of development and growth, providing an opportunity to be resilient and persistent when things don't go to plan. Sean shares a personal experience where he turned a coding failure into a learning opportunity, evolving better testing principles. Also, they discuss the ...

Nov 08, 202318 minEp. 120

Episode 119: Quick Bites: Constructivism and Coding

In this episode of our teaching series, we dive into learners and their coding journey. We spotlight the Constructivist learning approach, emphasizing its core tenets: active learning, connecting coding to real-world challenges, the crucial role of collaboration, and the sheer power of motivation. The transformative potential of this approach is undeniable. From tales of initial struggles to triumphant victories, this episode is a 15-20 minute dive into the heart of teaching Python.

Oct 24, 202322 minEp. 119

Episode 118: Quick Bites: Testing Student Code

Today, we'll talk about how to test students' code using automated tools. For example, the unit testing built into Replit's Teams for Education (https://replit.com/site/teams-for-education) allows students to see if their code is correct, while teachers can quickly assess dozens of submissions. We'll also talk about potential pitfalls that can disrupt or distract from learning. Note: This is a shorter episode format that focuses on one specific topic, limited to 15-20 minutes.

Oct 21, 202315 minEp. 118

Episode 117: Intermediate Python With Yasoob Khalid

Yasoob Khalid is a blogger, developer at Microsoft, and author of Practical Python Projects and Intermediate Python. Growing up in Pakistan, he saw that there was a lack of resources for learners in developing countries, so he started to blog about what he was learning. Over time, this grew into free online books and resources that anyone around the world can use to learn Python. During our conversation, we talk about everything from making learning open and accessible, to the role that teachers...

Oct 11, 202359 minEp. 117