Computer Science and Progressive Ed?
How can we make CS work in a student voice and choice-driven, gradeless learning environment with true differentiation allowing for student levels and learning styles? That’s the essential question. I know that student engagement is key. I know that big projects are the way to go. I know that "just-in-time"… Continue reading
There are worse addictions
Hi. My name is Bob, and I’m a lifelong learner. Just can’t help it, really. I love learning about almost anything, but my main jam is coding, whether that’s text-based, block-based, Minecraft-based, robots, microBits, art, music, whatever. I love making the language actually DO something, then tinkering with it to… Continue reading
Giving the eulogy
Last week I did one of the hardest things I’ve ever done in my life. I wrote and delivered the eulogy for my father. I find it pretty easy to write about other things (thanks to my father, who was a writer). But this one really hit me hard. He… Continue reading
After 1 week back in the saddle
It’s been quite a ride so far, and not one that can be easily reduced to one post. But here’s a start: First, I’m very happy to have found something that just works for me and my schedule at this point in my life. It’s 4 afternoons a week, 2… Continue reading
Back in the saddle again
It’s now officially the night before the first day of school. For me! Again. Only a year ago, I retired from full time classroom teaching. I spent the year busy as always, putting lots of effort into whatever might be next for me. A new business venture, possibilities of tutoring,… Continue reading
A week of Minecraft mania!
This was a first for me — a complete week of doing Minecraft all day, every day. How did I get so lucky? I taught a week of Minecraft in Computer Science at a CSTA PD event for the state of South Carolina, put on by the awesome folks at… Continue reading
Diggin’ on Dylan
I just discovered Bob’s Theme Time Radio Hour on YouTube and had a bit of time today, so I gave it a listen. Stayed right through till the end. Just basically gobsmacked — it’s got everything. Literary references (Samuel Johnson!), fascinating backstories to artists and songs, interesting songs, all wrapped… Continue reading
Chicago Bob rides again!
One of the great joys in my life is playing music. And I love playing "out" — in front of people. I know I’ll never be a star or go national, but it makes me happy to share my music live. I’m a blues guy. Though I’ve got a pretty… Continue reading
Kicking It Old School
As I’m planning my Minecraft RPG, I’m doing a lot of research into DnD and trying to refresh my memory and also see what’s been happening in the 20 years since I’ve been away from the table. One movement that I’m learning about is #OSR — Old School Renaissance or… Continue reading
Minecraft Madness…
… in retirement. OMG! Now that I’m officially retired, I have time to pursue things that I really want to do! It’s a voyage of discovery, as you will find when it’s your turn. Having spent our whole careers, doing things we had to do, it’s a big jump to… Continue reading