District 196 Community Education

Take an adventurous journey to learn programming and coding using the world famous Scratch visual language, a program developed by MIT Media Lab. Learn STEM-based engineering principles by building a variety of fun-filled motorized models using LEGO® Bricks and Technic® elements with themes such as space exploration, cranium contraptions and interesting inventions. Participate in team building, group games and recess activities to provide time for shared fun and camaraderie.  

Learn film editing basics and how to use Hollywood-style special effects techniques. Possible special effects learned in class: animated laser, custom light sword, pulp sci-fi crawl and hyperdrive effects. Final projects will be emailed to parents or bring a USB jump drive on the last day of class.

Use the EV3 Mindstorm Robotics Systems and special LEGO® Technic engineering components to build extreme competitive robots. Work in small teams to control your robots with EV3 programming. Modify the programs and builds and be challenged to morph your projects into better, stronger and faster robots to compete in a tournament on the last day.

Be introduced to object-oriented programming and elements of the Java language while learning to code in text-based RPG (Roleplaying Game). No programming experience is necessary, but familiarity with doing common tasks using a computer operating system and keyboarding is recommended.

Reinforce problem-solving skills and spatial cognition through learning to create in-game dungeons and treasure maps! Learn about concepts in programming and game design. Immerse yourself in creativity, exploration and cooperative learning experiences.

Collaborate with friends to construct a city! Take home your completed world file at the end of class. Beginners and experienced Minecrafters alike will love this action-packed camp!

Use LEGO®WeDo Robotics System to build and learn to code your own robotic creations! Work in teams to program and modify robotic models using LEGO® bricks drag-and-drop interface. After building models, you will be walked through coding exercises and then challenged to improve the WeDo code.

Build a seeing-sensing robot using LEGO® bricks, then program it to complete unique tasks and challenges. Build a rescue helicopter to find animals in need of assistance and message headquarters with status updates. Learn basic engineering and computer coding concepts.

Learn real-world game development skills using the same program that the pros and indie game developers use. Use Blueprint, a revolutionary visual scripting language, to develop gameplay mechanics, UI, visual effects, artificial intelligence and more! Bring a USB drive to save your games.

Get hands-on experience developing your own video game! Create a version of Asteroids from scratch using Construct 2, a visual coding platform that teaches the basics and structure of programming. Games created in class will be available online or bring a USB drive for immediate access.