Community Workshops

Hands-on labs hosted by chapters, schools, and neighborhood partners to bring applied scientific computing into local contexts.

Workshop Formats

K–8 Explorers

Interactive demos using sensors, storytelling, and unplugged activities.

Audience: Grades 4–8 · 60–90 min Use K–8 toolkit →

High School Studio

Project-based sprint aligned with simulation and open-data lesson plans.

Audience: Grades 9–12 · Half day Run HS studio →

Community Data Clinic

Neighborhood partners analyze civic datasets with mentors and student facilitators.

Audience: Residents & civic staff · 2 hours Coordinate with chapters →

Facilitation Kit

Each workshop template plugs into CS² programs and resources so local hosts can focus on delivery.

Materials

  • Slide deck + facilitator notes per lesson
  • Hands-on activity cards and supply checklist
  • Pre/post survey templates mapped to outcomes

People

  • Lead facilitator from a CS² chapter or educator cohort
  • 2–3 mentors recruited via Professional Programs
  • Community liaison to secure venue + outreach

Follow-up

  • Share recap post + photos for the events archive
  • Offer office hours or next-step learning paths
  • Capture quotes for community impact reporting

Lesson Tie-ins

Lesson

Community Data Detectives

Learners build simple dashboards that explain local environmental indicators.

Lesson

Sensor Quest

Collect and analyze sensor data to understand infrastructure performance.

Lesson

Simulation Studio

High school learners build simple models and present findings to civic partners.

Logistics Checklist

  • Secure venue with tables, reliable internet, and projection
  • Confirm accessibility needs (ASL, captioning, transportation)
  • Publish registration + waiver forms at least three weeks out
  • Ship or stage kits (laptops, sensors, printouts) 5 days before
  • Assign lead for documentation and quick photo recap