Meet and Code
GENERAL INFORMATION
Location: Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Spain, the United Kingdom and Ukraine.
Organization(s) Involved: Haus des Stiftens für Unternehmen, Non-Profits gGmbH (Haus des Stiftens), TechSoup Europe, Amazon Future Engineer
Email: uk@meet-and-code.org
Web: https://www.linkedin.com/company/meet-and-code/?viewAsMember=true
USEFUL LINKS
Website
Facebook
Instagram
SUMMARY
Meet and Code aims to introduce children and young people to the world of technology and coding. It targets children and youth aged 8-24 years old. The project focuses on organizing coding events, hackathons, workshops, and other activities that promote digital skills and computer science knowledge. The primary goal is to inspire the next generation to pursue careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and to bridge the digital divide.
OBJECTIVES
- Introduce children and young people to coding and digital skills.
- Inspire the next generation to pursue careers in STEM fields.
- Bridge the digital divide by providing access to technology education.
- Promote digital literacy and problem-solving skills through fun and interactive events.
- Support the development of 21st-century skills crucial for future job markets.
CONTEXT AND BACKGROUND
Meet and Code was developed in response to the growing need for digital literacy and skills in the modern world, which arose from the recognition that many young individuals lack opportunities to learn coding and digital skills essential for future employment and participation in the digital economy. The project seeks to equip the next generation with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in an increasingly digital world.
IMPLEMENTATION: ACTIVITIES AND METHODOLOGIES
It organizes various activities such as coding workshops, hackathons, and technology-focused events to introduce young people to digital skills.
The initiative uses innovative methodologies like gamified learning and hands-on projects to engage participants.
It requires financial resources for event funding, human resources including volunteers and educators, and technical resources such as computers and software.
Key partners include SAP, Haus des Stiftens gGmbH, and TechSoup Europe, which provide funding, strategic support, and local implementation assistance.
PROJECT OUTCOMES & LESSONS LEARNED
The project introduced thousands of children and young people to coding and digital skills through numerous events across Europe. It proved the effectiveness of hands-on, gamified learning experiences in engaging participants and the importance of local partnerships for event success. What worked well was the diverse range of activities tailored to different age groups and skill levels.
IMPACT
The Meet and Code project enhanced digital literacy and skills among young people, preparing them for future job markets and fostering a culture of innovation.
The target audience benefited through increased access to technology education and opportunities. Young people actively participated in the events, contributed ideas, and sometimes even led workshops, thereby enhancing their leadership and teamwork abilities.
VISUAL AND SUPPORTING MATERIALS
Website News
Facebook Photos
Amazon Article
SAP Article