Our own Derek Babb, President of the CSTA Nebraska Omaha Metro Area chapter (and a founding member of the chapter) is on the ballot for the national CSTA board. Derek would do a wonderful job of serving on the CSTA board.
The 2015 CSTA Board of Directors Elections will run from April 2, 2015 to May 4, 2015. Each CSTA member should have received an email on April 2 containing a personalized link to the election ballot. Each Nominee is asked to answer a few questions. Here are Derek’s Answers:
Personal Statement
I think that computer science is the most exciting, entertaining, and engaging subject we are teaching today. It is unfortunate that not all students have access to CS due to lack of qualified teachers or lack of vision by schools. I have advocated for CS education in two school districts and at the state level. I would like the opportunity to do the same at the national level where I can have a greater impact.
What experiences and/or interests in K-12 computer science/information technology education qualify you to serve as a leader for the organization?
I have taught Computer Science for the past 9 years and have served as president of our local Omaha CSTA chapter for the past two years. I have been an advocate for computer science education in the Omaha metro participating in many workshops and conferences. I have also been active in computer science activities that help to engage students. I have found competitions, projects, and industry tours to be helpful in exciting students about CS. I would like to help create these relevant projects and advocate for student participation.
What previous experience do you have with CSTA?
I was involved with the creation of a local chapter of CSTA started in Omaha and have been fortunate enough to act as president since it began. I am now in my second year in that role. This past summer I was able to attend the CSTA conference. Over my career I have attended many state technology conferences and I have also attended ISTE. The CSTA conference has been the best professional development I have experienced. I would like to help to maintain this high level experience for CS teachers.
What leadership skills do you have that would enrich the Board and the organization?
I am good at working with people; I rarely encounter a person with whom I cannot get along. I have gained many ideas through my experiences and I love to explore new ideas, especially with regard to CS education. I love new ideas though I am skeptical of many attempts to automate education until I see success. I am passionate about Computer Science and that gives me an advantage over someone who just does it as a job. I have never rested on what I’ve done before, I am always trying to improve and make my classes better.
What do you think are the most important issues for K-12 computer science education?
I think there are two issues facing CS education today. The first is the lack of exposure to CS by most students. Not knowing what computer science is and what a CS professional does is keeping potential CS majors out of the profession. The second issue is the quality of education. Computer Science is not dull but many of our classes are. Students need to see CS as a means to change the world, to make life better, and to solve challenging problems. This takes experienced, excited, qualified teachers.
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