NewTechKids is conducting a research study about our past 10 years of teaching computer science with the University of Amsterdam and Vrije University. When asked what we should teach more of, many parents mentioned art and digital creativity.
So we are chuffed to announce that NewTechKids is introducing a new, after-school bootcamp with classes aimed at fighting kids’ passive tech consumption by helping them use technology to explore new forms of art, design and creativity. During this 8-week bootcamp on Wednesday afternoons at the Amsterdam Public Library near Centraal Station, kids ages 8-12 will discover that apps and tech devices aren’t only for scrolling, watching videos, gaming and messaging. They’ll learn how to use them to create and produce a portfolio of digital art.
Each week, students will create using different art forms, including web-based drawing, pixel art, stop motion, animation and music beat making. We’ll also introduce kids to AI through AI art, discussing the ethical side of generative AI, explaining how prompts work and providing guidance on how to formulate effective prompts. Students will also acquire an understanding of user interfaces and practice navigating app and tablet functionalities.
Classes will take place on Wednesdays from 16:15 – 17:45 on the following dates:
– May 14, 21, 28
– June 4, 11, 18, 25
– July 2
This bilingual camp will be taught by a native Dutch-speaking professional teacher or instructor with specialised training in computer science education. The curriculum and workshops are based on NewTechKids’ pedagogy which focuses on concept-context learning and the use of tangible learning tools.
All kids welcome. We are offering heavily-subsidized spots for kids from low-income families with a Stadspas. Register here.
Here’s some girls in our recent hip hop beat making class enjoying themselves.