NewTechKids has recently returned from the United Arab Emirates where our teachers (and one child assistant) taught computer science bootcamps during the Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival (April 19-29, 2017).
Everyday, we taught children ages 7-12 about systems thinking (computers, their main parts and how these parts work together) and technology design (function, requirements and user interface). The children who attended were very enthusiastic and engaged.
The United Arab Emirates is a fascinating country, with innovation and technology everywhere, from the first rotating skyscraper planned for 2020 to the world’s first 3D printed office which was unveiled in May 2016. Hyperloop One has unveiled a concept for project that will transport passengers from Dubai to Abu Dhabi in 12 minutes (currently two hour drive). Flying taxis are set to start transporting customers in July.
It makes a lot of sense that the government is focusing on introducing more initiatives around technology education for children.
This is the second time that we’ve taught computer science bootcamps in UAE and we look forward to continuing and expanding our collaboration.