The New Zealand Tech Alliance is a group of independent technology associations from across New Zealand that work together to ensure a strong voice for technology.
Visit Tech AllianceAkoTech | Director Peter Duncan | Inspiring and empowering the next generation of technology and STEM professionals.
AkoTech, formerly known as Codecamp, has just announced the release of the beta version of its learning platform, which teaches children and teachers how to code with virtual robotics. The company’s new immersive, AI, and gamified coding platform offers interactive lessons designed to simulate real-life robotics experiences, including a personal AI learning guide called PAIGE and her new friend Jessie.
‘’As technology continues to evolve, it is essential for children to learn digital skills, such as coding, at an early age. The earlier they start, the less of a hurdle it becomes to tackle STEM topics later,” says Peter Duncan, Director at AkoTech.
AkoTech is on a mission to make coding education accessible and enjoyable for children and their teachers. “We believe that teaching children how to code robotics not only helps them understand technology and how AI works, but also enhances problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
‘’Ako, which means “to learn or co-learn” in Māori, reflects our commitment to teachers and students to provide a fun and interactive learning environment, while increasing creativity and collaboration.”
Coding and computational thinking is compulsory in the New Zealand primary and intermediate school curriculum and teachers need to be supported.
“Our platform comes with a teacher’s dashboard and all 240 of our escape room style challenges are mapped to the NZDT curriculum, making it easy for children and teachers to learn how to code and easily see their progress,” says Peter.
AkoTech is also expanding its presence throughout New Zealand, offering licences to run holiday and after-school programs for primary and intermediate students. It has also recently been approved to offer its more sophisticated programs to secondary schools.
As part of the AkoVerse Beta launch, AkoTech are offering a free trial and in person support to all New Zealand schools for teachers and their students. Schools can find out more by contacting Peter on 021 713714 or peter@akotech.nz
Ka rawe Peter and team AkoTech, good luck with all that comes next.
Image caption: AkoVerse – 12 worlds, 240 challenges, secret stretch challenges & escape room style challenges.