b'(Left) 4-H youth and their leader working on a com-puter science project. (Right) Robotics is an integral component of the 4-H Computer Science Pathways program.building on our success delivering computerGrowing Computer Science Pathways science education to communities in fourDigital and Unplugged: Hands-on learn-primary ways: ing. Principles for effectively delivering digital and unplugged activities for youth 1. Creating mobile learning libraries of all ages is provided in this training. and laboratories Unplugged activities teach computational Also known as mobile labs, these arethinking, problem solving and the basics of self-contained traveling classrooms usedcoding without needing digital technology.to teach new skills and ways of thinking that bring all of our young people access3. Creating and facilitating teen mentoring, to opportunity and help them innovate.teen-led programming and youth-adult We teach youth technical computer sciencepartnerships skills such as coding, and essential life skillsWe teach volunteer and teen training including computational thinking, team- programs. In these workshops participants work, and problem solving. The mobilelearn the importance of, and strategies labs have digital and unplugged activities.for, giving youth authentic and mean-Digital activities do not require internetingful engagement opportunities. These opportunities, in programs, and in their access. Unplugged activities are used on UConn 4-H Computer Science Pathways their own or as part of other programs,communities, help youth find their voice. including the healthy living program, civicYouth see that they can exert influence and engagement program or STEM programs.develop decision-making authority. Bridging the Gap Between Scientists and Communities Educators and 4-H club leaders receive4. Leveraging the National 4-H CouncilsArticle by Maryann Fusco-Rollinsessential and support training with theand Googles computer science exper-mobile labs. tise and resources Contact4-H knows talent is everywhere, butas part of a $6 million grant from flexible to help students see the range of2. Providing comprehensive, statewide,Community educators receive theMaryann Fusco-Rollinsopportunity is not. Building youthGoogle.org. 4-H and Google are bringingways computer science can connect theprofessional development skills and resources they need to delivermaryann.fusco@uconn.eduequity and closing opportunity gaps bycomputer science education to the 4-Hthings they care about. Computer scienceTeens as Teachers: Teens learn the fun- cutting-edge computer science program- 4-H.uconn.educonnecting youth curriculum, lessonsystem with the goal of creating equitableskills, like analytical thinking, resiliencedamentals of teaching diverse audiences.ming through this collaboration. Youth plans, technology and training is theaccess to these life-changing skills forand creativity, are some of the mostThese skills benefit many subject areas, notcomputer science programming from 4-H focus of the UConn CAHNR Extensionkids and teens everywhere. 4-H workssought-after skills in todays job market.just computer science.fits communitys needs, while fostering Computer Science (CS) Pathwayswherever the youth are with a focus onThe 4-H Computer Science Pathwaysleadership, confidence, and life skills. program.rural youth and populations that tradi- Program represents an opportunity forYouth-Adult Partnerships: This trainingThere is a tremendous need for young tionally have limited access to computeryoung people of all backgrounds to cre- teaches the fundamentals of youth-adultpeople to create technology, not just Computer science and technology arescience education. ate, not just consume technology, whilepartnerships and strategies for success.consume it. By bringing our organizations not just transforming jobs and economiesalso fulfilling a critical workforce need. These partnerships were part of the originaltogether, we are combining the reach in cities, they are equally important toIn Connecticut, whether through adesign of 4-H programs and are a coreand expertise of the nations largest youth rural communities and within the agri- military program developing a lightingUConn 4-H brings over 100 yearsvalue today.development organization, 4-H, with the culture sector.system for a henhouse, a small townof transformational educational experi- Growing Computer Science Pathways:power of Googles computer science educa-UConn 4-H received the 2019-2020community club using e-textiles in aences that build successful youth-adultThis face-to-face training teaches thetional programs and volunteers. Growing a Computer Science Pathwaysewing project or an urban afterschoolpartnerships in our communities. Thefundamental theories of computer science - Launchers for Americas Youth grantprogram using code to make robots runUConn 4-H Computer Science Pathwaysprogram delivery and introduces the lessonVisit 4-H.uconn.edu for more informa-presented by National 4-H Councilmore efficiently, the 4-H approach isProgram is using the grant to continueplans, curriculum and supplies needed.tion on the Computer Science Pathways Program. HE12 2019 HIGHLIGHTS OF EXTENSION 2019 HIGHLIGHTS OF EXTENSION 13'