AI for Coding Camp (Ages 12-14)

Introduce your students to artificial intelligence and modern AI tools, particularly ChatGPT, while they learn foundational programming concepts in their chosen language: JavaScript, Java, or Python. Students will gain practical experience using AI as a coding assistant and develop competence in a programming language of their selection.

Module 1: Introduction to Artificial Intelligence and ChatGPT with Interactive Engagement

• AI Exploration and Discovery: Students will interact directly with ChatGPT, asking questions to understand coding concepts explained in an accessible language and requesting ChatGPT to generate basic code examples, such as "Hello World" programs in their selected language.
• Technical Demonstration: Instructors will demonstrate how ChatGPT provides practical assistance by generating code snippets and helping with debugging tasks, enabling students to determine which programming language feels most comfortable and natural for their learning style.

Module 2: Learning Foundational Concepts of Your Chosen Programming Language

Interactive Code Walkthrough and Hands-On Exercises

• JavaScript Option: Students will construct a simple and interactive webpage combining HTML and JavaScript, where user interaction with a button triggers text changes on the page.
• Python Option: Students will create a basic program that accepts user input and produces meaningful output.
• Java Option: Students will create a straightforward console-based program that handles user input and generates corresponding output.
• Each student will select a single language to focus on for the remainder of the course, building expertise in that area.

Module 3: Building Simple Projects with AI Assistance

• Project 1 (Calculator Application): Using your chosen programming language, you will create a functional calculator with the following variations: Python students build a console-based calculator; JavaScript students develop a web-based calculator interface; Java students create a console-based calculator application. Throughout development, students use ChatGPT to assist with debugging and optimizing code performance.
• Personalization Task: Challenge yourself to add at least one unique feature to your calculator project such as a calculation history log, making the project distinctly your own creation.

Module 4: Interactive Debugging and Problem-Solving with AI Support

• Group Debugging Challenge: You will receive intentionally buggy code written in your chosen programming language and must work collaboratively to use ChatGPT to help identify and fix the errors.
• Explanation and Reflection: After successfully debugging the code, explain how ChatGPT supported your debugging process and discuss areas where you believe AI could provide even more targeted assistance.

Module 5: Showcase Projects and Personalized Development Initiatives

• Brainstorm and Plan: Work with ChatGPT to brainstorm creative project ideas tailored to your interests. Potential ideas include creating a simple guessing game in Python, building an interactive webpage with special features in JavaScript, or developing a console-based program with useful functionality in Java.
• Project Presentation: Each student presents their completed project to classmates, explaining how they leveraged ChatGPT to overcome coding challenges and improve their final solution.

This comprehensive approach enables each student to specialize in one programming language, developing practical foundational skills while using artificial intelligence as a supportive and collaborative tool throughout their coding projects and learning journey.