Coding and robotics classes coming to Saskatchewan

Apr. 17, 2018 – The Government of Saskatchewan has announced new coding and robotics opportunities for middle years and high school students in the province. These elective courses will be available to all Saskatchewan high schools, while Grades 7-9 teachers can also introduce students to coding and robotics.

“Our government is following through on our commitment to develop Saskatchewan students’ computer coding skills that will help prepare them for emerging careers in science, mathematics, engineering and technology,” said Deputy Premier and Education Minister Gordon Wyant. “[This] announcement will build upon local successes we have seen across the province in coding and robotics education.”

“Saskatchewan’s rapidly growing tech sector relies on a diverse and highly educated workforce that can be achieved only through continued and innovative support at every level of education,” SaskTech spokesperson Dr. Aaron Genest said. “We are thrilled to see the Government of Saskatchewan demonstrate a commitment to position Saskatchewan’s children as leaders in an increasingly technical world. We thank the government for understanding that robotics and coding skills are best introduced early to ensure all students benefit.”

A writing team, made up of teacher experts and ministry consultants, will begin developing robotics courses that incorporate coding this spring with the goal of piloting them in the 2018-19 school year. The writing team will use locally developed secondary robotics courses approved for use in Saskatchewan schools as guides for the province-wide curriculum.