Tech Holiday Training for Kids and Teens, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Course 1. Coding (Introduction to Programming Concepts)

• Goal: To introduce fundamental programming logic, computational thinking, and problem-solving skills through visual or text-based coding environments.
• Key Learning Areas:
  • Introduction to Algorithms: Understanding step-by-step instructions.
  • Sequencing: Ordering commands correctly.
  • Loops: Repeating actions efficiently.
  • Conditionals (If/Else): Making decisions in code.
  • Variables: Storing and manipulating data.
  • Functions: Breaking down complex problems into smaller, manageable parts.
• Tools & Platforms:
  • Scratch (MIT): Using drag-and-drop blocks to create interactive stories, games, and animations.
  • Blockly (Google): Stepping stone to text-based coding.
  • Code.org: Structured lessons and projects
• Projects/Activities: Creating simple animations, interactive stories, basic games (e.g., maze games, pong), and solving coding puzzles.
• Outcome: Students will be able to think algorithmically, understand basic programming structures, and create simple programs.

Course 2. AI & Robotics (Introduction to Artificial Intelligence and Robotics)

• Goal: To demystify Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, introducing concepts of smart machines, automation, and how robots interact with their environment.
• Key Learning Areas:
  • What is AI? Basic understanding of AI concepts (e.g., machine learning, pattern recognition).
  • What are Robots? Components of a robot (sensors, actuators, controllers).
  • Basic Robotics Principles: Movement, simple control logic.
  • Introduction to Sensors: How robots “see” and “feel” (e.g., light sensors, ultrasonic sensors).
  • Simple Actuators: How robots “move” (e.g., motors).
  • Robot Programming (Basic): Giving commands to a robot to perform tasks.
• Tools & Platforms (Examples):
  • LEGO Mindstorms EV3/Spike Prime: Hands-on robot building and block-based programming.
  • Ozobot/Sphero: Small, programmable robots that introduce coding concepts in a fun way.
  • Online AI Simulators/Games: Engaging platforms that demonstrate AI principles.
• Projects/Activities: Building and programming simple robots to follow lines, avoid obstacles, or perform specific movements; interactive activities demonstrating AI concepts like image recognition or simple chatbots.
• Outcome: Students will gain an introductory understanding of AI and robotics, appreciate their real-world applications, and develop problem-solving skills through hands-on robot building and programming.

Course 3. Graphic Design (Visual Communication Fundamentals)

• Goal: To introduce the principles of visual communication, creativity, and the use of digital tools to create compelling graphics.
• Key Learning Areas:
  • Design Principles: Color theory, typography, layout, hierarchy, balance, contrast.
  • Image Manipulation Basics: Cropping, resizing, basic corrections.
  • Understanding Vector vs. Raster Graphics: When to use which.
  • Iconography & Branding: Creating simple logos and icons.
  • Digital Drawing & Illustration: Basic techniques.
• Tools & Platforms:
  • Canva: User-friendly online tool for creating various designs with templates.
  • CorelDraw: Creating Designs
  • PhotoShop: Image Editing and Manipulation
• Projects/Activities: Designing social media posts, simple posters, birthday cards, custom avatars, basic logos, and flyers.
• Outcome: Students will understand fundamental graphic design principles, be able to use basic design software, and create visually appealing digital graphics.

Course 4. Computer Basics (Digital Literacy & Essential Skills)

• Goal: To equip students with fundamental computer literacy skills necessary for navigating the digital world safely and efficiently.
• Key Learning Areas:
  • Computer Hardware & Software: Identifying basic components (CPU, RAM, storage) and understanding the difference between operating systems and applications.
  • Operating System Navigation: Windows/macOS basics (desktop, files, folders, shortcuts).
  • File Management: Organizing files, creating folders, copying, pasting, deleting.
  • Internet Safety & Etiquette: Recognizing phishing, safe Browse habits, cyberbullying awareness.
  • Basic Word Processing: Creating and formatting documents (e.g., using Microsoft Word or Google Docs).
  • Basic Spreadsheet Use: Organizing data (e.g., using Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets).
  • Email Fundamentals: Sending, receiving, attaching files.
• Tools & Platforms :
  • Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides).
  • Web browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge).
• Projects/Activities: Creating a personal folder structure, writing a simple report, creating a basic budget in a spreadsheet, sending an email with an attachment, conducting safe online research.
• Outcome: Students will be comfortable and confident using a computer for basic tasks, managing files, and navigating the internet safely and responsibly.

Course 5. Python Programming (Text-Based Coding Introduction)

• Goal: To introduce students to a widely used, versatile, and beginner-friendly text-based programming language, Python.
• Key Learning Areas:
  • Python Syntax: Basic rules and structure of Python code.
  • Data Types: Numbers, strings, booleans.
  • Operators: Arithmetic, comparison, logical operators.
  • Input/Output: Getting input from users and displaying results.
  • Control Flow: If/Else statements, For and While loops.
  • Lists & Dictionaries: Basic data structures.
  • Functions: Creating reusable blocks of code.
• Tools & Platforms:
  • IDLE (Python’s built-in editor): Simple and effective for beginners.
  • Thonny: User-friendly Python IDE designed for learning.
  • Online Python Interpreters (e.g., Repl.it): Qquick coding practice.
  • PyCharm
  • Visual Studio Code (VS Code)
• Projects/Activities: Building a simple calculator, a “guess the number” game, a text-based adventure game, simple data manipulation programs.
• Outcome: Students will have a foundational understanding of Python programming, be able to write simple scripts, and solve computational problems using code. This course serves as an excellent stepping stone for more advanced programming.

Course 6. Game Development (Creating Interactive Digital Experiences)

• Goal: To introduce the exciting world of game design and development, allowing students to create their own interactive games.
• Key Learning Areas:
  • Game Design Principles: Mechanics, levels, characters, storytelling.
  • Game Loops: Understanding how games continuously run.
  • Sprites & Animations: Creating and animating game assets.
  • Collision Detection: Making objects interact.
  • Scoring & Game States: Implementing game logic (e.g., win/lose conditions).
  • Basic Physics: Gravity, movement.
• Tools & Platforms:
  • Scratch (MIT): Excellent for introductory 2D game development with block-based coding.
  • Construct 3: Event-driven 2D game engine for platformers and arcade games.
  • Pico-8/GameMaker Studio (entry-level): Pixel art or retro-style games.
  • Python with Pygame : To combine Python skills with game creation.
  • Unity
• Projects/Activities: Developing a platformer game, a maze game, a simple shooting game, or a basic endless runner game.
• Outcome: Students will understand the basic concepts of game design, be able to use a game development platform, and create their own playable digital games.

Course 7. UI/UX Design (User Interface and User Experience Fundamentals)

• Goal: To introduce students to the concepts of creating user-friendly and aesthetically pleasing digital interfaces, focusing on how users interact with and experience technology.
• Key Learning Areas:
  • What is UI? (User Interface): Visual elements users interact with (buttons, menus, colors, fonts).
  • What is UX? (User Experience): How users feel when using a product (easy, frustrating, efficient).
  • User-Centered Design: Designing with the user in mind.
  • Wireframing & Prototyping (Basic): Sketching out layouts and creating clickable mockups.
  • Usability Principles: Making designs easy to use.
  • Basic Information Architecture: Organizing content logically.
  • Color Psychology & Typography in UI: How design choices impact user perception.
• Tools & Platforms (Examples):
  • Figma (beginner-friendly features): Collaborative design tool for UI wireframing and prototyping.
  • Adobe XD (basic features): Another popular tool for UI/UX.
  • Pencil & Paper: Essential for initial ideation and sketching.
• Projects/Activities: Designing a simple mobile app screen, a website homepage, or an interactive prototype for a fictional product. Conducting simple usability tests on their designs.
• Outcome: Students will grasp the foundational principles of UI/UX design, understand the importance of user-centered design, and be able to create basic wireframes and prototypes for digital products.

Course 8. Video Editing (Digital Storytelling Through Video)

• Goal: To teach students the basics of video production, from organizing footage to editing, adding effects, and exporting finished videos.
• Key Learning Areas:
  • Video Workflow: Planning, shooting, editing, exporting.
  • Importing & Organizing Media: Managing video clips, audio, and images.
  • Timeline Editing: Cutting, trimming, arranging clips.
  • Adding Transitions & Effects: Smooth scene changes and visual enhancements.
  • Audio Editing Basics: Adjusting volume, adding background music, voiceovers.
  • Text & Titles: Creating engaging on-screen text.
  • Color Correction (Basic): Enhancing video appearance.
  • Exporting for Different Platforms: Understanding file formats and resolutions.
• Tools & Platforms (Examples):
  • Adobe Premier Pro
  • CapCut (Mobile/Desktop):
  • DaVinci Resolve (Free version):
  • OpenShot Video Editor (Free & Open Source):
  • InShot/KineMaster (Mobile): User-friendly for smartphones/tablets.
• Projects/Activities: Creating a short personal vlog, a highlight reel, a mini-documentary, or a promotional video for a fictional product/event.
• Outcome: Students will learn fundamental video editing techniques, be able to use video editing software, and produce their own short, edited videos.