Teaching Python

In this special episode of Teaching Python, hosts Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes convene an open space discussion at PyCon US 2025 in Pittsburgh. Surrounded by a diverse group of educators, developers, and learners, they hand the mic to the community to answer two key questions: How are you using AI personally, and how do you see AI shaping education? Listeners will hear firsthand accounts from university lecturers, high school teachers, industry professionals, and volunteer mentors. Topics include the impact of AI tools on coding productivity, the challenges of assessing genuine learning in an AI-rich environment, and strategies for teaching critical thinking alongside technical skills. The episode also delves into the tension between embracing AI as an educational aid and ensuring students develop foundational problem-solving abilities. Whether you’re an educator, developer, or simply curious about the future of learning, this episode offers a nuanced, multi-perspective look at AI’s growing influence in the classroom and beyond. Support Teaching Python [https://www.patreon.com/teachingpython]

In Episode 147 of Teaching Python, Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes focus on the importance and power of teaching APIs to coding students. They share personal stories and practical strategies for engaging students with APIs, from simple use cases to more complex projects. Join them as they discuss how to make lessons fun and relevant, leveraging LLMs (Large Language Models) for code explanations, and teaching through trial and error. This episode also touches on the broader applications of APIs in today's technological landscape, examining how learning APIs can open up new possibilities for students and equip them with essential skills for the future. Whether you're a teacher, student, or coding enthusiast, there's something valuable in this episode for you. Support Teaching Python [https://www.patreon.com/teachingpython]

In episode 146 of Teaching Python, hosts Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster Perez delve into the newly established Python Education and Outreach Work Group, featuring guests Cheuk Ting Ho and Keith Murray. The group, aimed at enhancing Python education within the community, outlines its mission to gather feedback on educational resources and support initiatives like the Education Summit at PyCon US. Keith and Cheuk discuss their backgrounds and roles within the Python Software Foundation, emphasizing the need for fresh educational content and community engagement. The episode also explores the work group's goals, which include: * Seeking and receiving feedback on Python educational resources * Consolidating and improving existing Python education materials * Supporting and expanding the education summit at PyCon US Additionally, the hosts share personal 'wins of the week,' highlighting the importance of accountability and community in the educational journey. Kelly and Sean discuss their past experiences with the Education Summit and encourage listeners to get involved by submitting talk proposals or joining in interactive sessions. The episode concludes with practical advice on how educators and enthusiasts can engage with the group to further Python education and outreach. Special Guests: Cheuk Ting Ho and Keith Murray. Support Teaching Python [https://www.patreon.com/teachingpython] Links: * PyOhio 2025 [https://www.pyohio.org/2025/] — Summer 2025 in Cleveland, OH * PythonEduWGCharter - PSF Wiki [https://wiki.python.org/psf/PythonEduWGCharter] — The Education & Outreach Workgroup's (EOW) purpose is to support the Python Software Foundation’s mission to promote the Python programming language, especially in supporting and enhancing the education of Python. The Education & Outreach Workgroup is a workgroup of the Python Software Foundation’s (PSF). * - Education Summit - PyCon US 2024 [https://us.pycon.org/2024/events/education-summit/] — In 2024, PyCon US held its 12th annual Python Education Summit in person!

In episode 145 of Teaching Python, Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes celebrate their six-year podcast anniversary and discuss the shifts within computer science education and the growing influence of AI. They both reflect on the podcast’s journey, their experiences with Blue Sky, and the milestone of over 500,000 downloads. The conversation delves into the changing landscape of tech roles, emphasizing the importance of foundational coding skills and computational thinking, regardless of emerging technologies like AI. They underline how coding remains a key skill that enables personal growth and opens vast opportunities, even in the face of fast-evolving tech sectors. Our hosts also highlight their exciting upcoming engagements, including the FETC conference and the Pine Crest Innovation Institute, encouraging listeners to remain adaptable and open to new learning avenues. Furthermore, they discuss the concept of adapting computer science curriculums to reflect real-world applications and evolving job markets, focusing on how to better prepare students for future careers. With a mix of personal anecdotes and professional insights, this episode offers a heartfelt look at the impact of teaching coding and the continuous evolution in education and technology. Support Teaching Python [https://www.patreon.com/teachingpython] Links: * Learn VIM while playing a game - VIM Adventures [https://vim-adventures.com/] — Learning VIM while playing a game * Teaching Python Podcast (@teachingpython.fm) — Bluesky [https://bsky.app/profile/teachingpython.fm] — Teaching Python on Bluesky * Sean Tibor (@seantibor.com) — Bluesky [https://bsky.app/profile/seantibor.com] — Sean's profile on Bluesky * Kelly Paredes (@kellypared.bsky.social) — Bluesky [https://bsky.app/profile/kellypared.bsky.social] — Kelly's profile on Bluesky * Future of Education Technology Conference | FETC 2025 [https://www.fetc.org/] * Pine Crest School's Innovation Institute [https://www.pinecrestnext.com/pine-crest-schools-innovation-institute] * Bett UK: Leading EdTech Event | 22-24 Jan 2025, ExCeL London [https://uk.bettshow.com/] * Top announcements of AWS re:Invent 2024 | AWS News Blog [https://aws.amazon.com/blogs/aws/top-announcements-of-aws-reinvent-2024/]

In episode 144 of Teaching Python, hosts Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes are joined by special guest Kudzayi Bamhare from Zimbabwe. They dive into the important topic of Python education as a driver of innovation in Africa, focusing specifically on the challenges and opportunities in Zimbabwe. The conversation covers how coding communities are forming and thriving despite various hurdles, and how inclusive environments can foster learning and growth in the tech industry. Kudzayi shares his inspiring journey into the world of coding, beginning with his initial exposure to Python and how attending Python conferences like PyCon Namibia have been pivotal in his growth. He emphasizes the importance of community, collaboration, and support in helping budding coders overcome challenges and stay motivated. The discussion also highlights the need for more initiatives and workshops to bridge the gap in tech education across the continent. The episode concludes with insightful ideas on how to create effective learning environments and the role of educators in nurturing future tech talents. Sean and Kelly, alongside Kudzayi, discuss the significance of making coding accessible and engaging, especially in underrepresented regions. They call on listeners to support initiatives that bring Python education to Africa, encouraging a global collaboration to drive technological progress and innovation. Special Guest: Kudzayi Bamhare. Support Teaching Python [https://www.patreon.com/teachingpython]