Intro to K-12 CS Education Microcredential
This microcredential will introduce you to the basic concepts of analysis, decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithms. You will experience how these concepts can be applied to any discipline and any grade level. Through creative assignments like the CS Autobiography you will be encouraged to reflect on your own experiences and views to help guide your further study.
Key elements of this course:
- Dip your toes into coding by creating a simple program in a block-based beginner’s environment of your choice.
- Learn about programming as well as debugging (fixing programs) without a computer through “unplugged” lessons.
- Explore lesson plans and resources to prepare you to bring Computer Science (CS) and Computational Thinking (CT) to your future or current classroom.
Currently accepting registrations!
Spring 2026 session
Course begins: March 24, 2026.
Registration closes: March 18, 2026.
Current registration cost:
$60
Modules
Module 1: Intro to Algorithms
Learn to identify algorithms and examine some algorithm-related unplugged activities.
Module 2: Intro to Computational Thinking (CT)
Learn what Computational Thinking (CT) is and why it is important for all students.
Module 3: Intro to Coding
Learn about programming languages and get started coding in a block-based language.
Module 4: Debugging Your Code
Learn about debugging through a reflection on the coding experience in Module 3.
Module 5: Exploring CS Lessons
Learn about existing K-12 computer science lessons/resources to integrate into your own classroom.
Module 6: Final Project
Use the knowledge you’ve gained throughout the course to evaluate aspects of a CS/CT lesson plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have a computer science background?
No. This is for anyone curious about bringing CS into their K-12 classrooms.
How much time does the microcredential take?
It will require about 20 hours of self-paced work.
Is this program for a specific grade level?
No. This microcredential is open to all preservice and in-service teachers who will be teaching elementary, middle or high school. There will be differentiation for activities to make it relevant to all grade levels.
What are the requirements to sign up?
This course is designed for both preservice and in-service K-12 teachers.
Will I receive University of Florida credits for this microcredential?
No. This microcredential is not a credit-accruing program. You will receive a University of Florida Credly badge and a certificate of completion to add to your resume, portfolio, and email signature.
Registration Information
For Districts
Empower your K-12 educators with our CS Education Microcredential Course! Districts can benefit from bulk purchasing options, a customized contract with payment deferred until course completion, and a dedicated online section exclusively for your staff. Elevate CS integration across your district!
Contact us to learn more: cseveryone@coe.ufl.edu.
For Individuals
Teachers! Ready to enhance your skills? Register now for our microcredential course!
Here are the steps to register a single teacher:
- Log into the course catalog system
- If you have an active Gatorlink (@ufl.edu email), use the top login.
- If not, use the Guest login and create an account. Complete the personal information, answering only mandatory questions. You will need to verify your email address by clicking a link sent to your email.
- Once you are logged in, go to our course in the course catalog: 470805 – Introduction to Computer Science Education & Computational Thinking
- Click on the CSED-SPR 2026 section title to view more details.
- Click Add to Cart.
- Checkout and complete payment
Reach out to Dr. Leela Kumaran at lkumaran@coe.ufl.edu for any issues.
