COVID-19 Emergency Response

For 4 weeks in July and August 2020, Code.X and local Albanian partner alphaPlan broadcasted a virtual version of Code.X programming content in the form of broadly accessible weekly webinars, created for students age 13-15. The goal of Code from Home 2020 was to continue student educational support, engagement, and community-building through the highly distressing global pandemic, as many of our students reported feeling isolated and unengaged with schooling. At its peak, Code from Home had 400+ students logging in and engaging weekly for lectures and activities.

Python lecture from Code from Home 2020.

Remote student presentations from Code from Home 2020.

How did we take Code.X online?

Although Code.X’s specialty is highly focused, interactive and immersed instruction, we made the commitment to remote learning and adapted digital versions of our curriculum. We realized that an online open class format would allow us to reach a large number of students, outside of our in-person program cohorts, who may lack other educational resources while stuck at home.

We took our typical Year 1 Python curriculum and adapted it into a lecture-style Zoom-based program in the form of weekly webinars, along with take-home activities and assignments. When possible, local teaching staff assisted students with take-home activities and assignments. Students had full access to live lectures with Code.X instructors, office hours, graded homework assignments, and online discussion with others in the program.

While Code from Home was happening, Code.X continued to host Code for Albania and Code for Palestine classes online; all Code.X curriculum was ultimately adapted to suite remote learning for 2020 and 2021 to follow through on our commitment to continuous student learning.

Press & Media Coverage

  • “Announcing Code from Home 2020!” (Code.X, 2020)

Our Local Partner

 

alphaPlan’s vision of 100,000 Coders for Albania 2030 aims to increase the number of coders in the country by advocating four goals:

  • Including computer science from elementary school and setting up the necessary infrastructure.

  • Organizing a national competition and programming fast-track for the most talented youth.

  • Creating accessible coding boot camps for youth who want to enter the tech job market.

  • Providing tech accessibility and internet connection for youth.

AlphaPlan believes that these will give the necessary support to extend the community of coders and also raise its future local leaders.