Many times, things just don’t work out the first time. It takes that trial and error to learn how to get it right.
This is perhaps the most valuable lesson that comes from learning to code. However, it can be a very difficult lesson – especially for students who are neurodiverse or who have other learning differences.
Mary Bless, library media specialist at Miriam Lower/Middle School, said she starts coding with even the youngest students. The younger classes use education.com, but they usually start with offline work with step-by-step directions and movements.
Older Miriam students use code.org, and they begin learning about debugging – or fixing mistakes in the code. “I try to reinforce the idea that the way we learn is to make mistakes,” Bless said. “I set the expectation that it will be challenging, and they should expect to make mistakes.”
Some students really struggle with the trial-and-error approach. Bless tries to make coding as accessible as possible for students by providing the extra support needed or letting students solve problems as a group. She believes coding is valuable enough that the extra support is necessary.
Some adaptations that might help students with special needs include coding with the use of visual blocks, voice-activated coding, physical coding (using hardware components), and gamification.
“The trial and error that inherently happens with coding is very beneficial for kids who learn differently,” Bless said. “It’s engaging enough that they will hopefully continue to try, even if they experience frustration.”
Bless hopes this persistence will carry over to other aspects of their schooling and life that might be challenging.
Early exposure to coding can also help develop logical thinking skills, as well as foster creativity, innovation and confidence. For older students, coding and other computer learning can provide practical skills that could lead to employment options post-high school.
Miriam Learning Center, an integral part of Miriam School and Learning Center, is excited to announce the expansion of its specialized services into St. Charles County. This expansion will provide critical tutoring and testing services for students with diverse learning needs.
Miriam School and Learning Center is proud to announce that the Rotary Club of St. Louis has generously awarded a $20,000 scholarship to support students in need of financial assistance. This year’s recipient, Remi W., a ninth grader from St. Ann, is a talented young student with a dream of becoming an artist and a passion for learning.
The group is a great way for St. Louis professionals ages 21-39 to network with one another, help local children with learning differences, and receive support and advice from others who have been in the professional world for a longer time.
Last week, Miriam High School students stretched their comfort zones at the Principia School Challenge Course. Each student selected from a variety of activities, including low and high ropes courses and a 35-foot climbing wall.
As students return to the classroom for the start of a new school year, the adjustment can sometimes be more difficult for students with learning differences.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a commonly misunderstood condition that affects both children and adults. Misinformation and myths often lead to misconceptions about its nature and impact.
A group of Miriam High School students took a bold step last year, stretching their comfort zones and joining an after-school club run by STL Rock School. Julie Altnether visited once per week to work with the students, who formed the band The Pyros.
Miriam School and Learning Center is pleased to announce the appointment of nine members to the board of directors, as well as a new board chair, Kristen Bowser. These additions will support the nonprofit’s work to empower unique learners, bringing the total number of board members to 26.
Miriam Summer FUNdamentals is offering more camps this year than ever before to help kids with learning and thinking differences maintain - and gain - skills during the summer.
Memories are inspired by photos… By diaries… And by keys? At Miriam, the answer is 100-percent yes. Anyone who leaves or graduates from Miriam Lower/Middle School receives a transition key – a symbol that they will always have a home at Miriam School.
Miriam ushered 21 seniors off to the next step of their journey with a graduation ceremony that was just like the rest of their experiences here - completely personalized.
Miriam High School teacher Lori Lipkind already retired once - after a long career of teaching in public schools. She wasn’t finished working with students, though, so she came to Miriam four years ago
Miriam School and Learning Center exceeded goals and expectations on April 13, with the inaugural Minds in Bloom Spring Soiree. Nearly 250 people attended the sold-out event, which was held at Danforth Plant Science Center.
Women of Achievement has announced that Linda Estell, long-time Miriam volunteer and board member, has been selected as one of the 2024 Women of Achievement.
Last Friday, our Next Steps Transition Fair and our Variety Show led to another festive and fun Friday at Miriam High School. We were thrilled to have 30 vendors join us for the Fair. It was wonderful to have family members participate and to observe our children shine.