Keeshin, who has taught computer science at Stanford University for the last three years, recently spoke with WashingtonExec about what exactly CodeHS is, how he became involved with the organization, and what he finds most exciting about his job.
Jeremy Keeshin: CodeHS is the best way for a beginner to learn how to program. Right now we are focusing on making it really easy for high schools to bring in a CS program, even if they don’t have a teacher.
WashingtonExec: What is the difference between CodeHS and other computer science instruction materials/programs?
Jeremy Keeshin: There are a few main differences:
1) We provide you help from real people, even though it is an online course.
2) We focus on making it fun, accessible, and about solving problems right at the start instead of drowning in syntax.
WashingtonExec: How did you guys become involved with this project?
Jeremy Keeshin: We both were recently students at Stanford in computer science, and helped to teach intro CS there for three years. We learned a lot about what it takes to make CS education fun and accessible, and are hoping to bring that to more people.
WashingtonExec: What was your first website?
Jeremy Keeshin: I had my own domain name maybe ten years ago, and used it for a few schools projects. I always thought it was fun to take projects to completion and have them on the internet. Since then I have had dozens of websites, for friends, for projects, for newspapers that I have run.
WashingtonExec: What is the most exciting thing about CodeHS?
Jeremy Keeshin: I think most people think that computer science and coding isn’t for them, and is too hard. One thing we believe is that it is truly accessible, and that anyone can learn. I think once you give people the fundamentals, everyone can surprise themselves at the programs they are able to create.
CodeHS was also recenlty featured in TechCrunch, Forbes Magazine, USA Today and The Wall Street Journal.
