This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. This persuasive talk shows how essential and easy it is to gain a basic understanding of computer science learning principles. Our world increasingly driven by technology and software, so we all need to know the creative, problem-solving power of computer science. This is especially important to students who will lead the way in our shared future. Learn how you can take the next step at http://code.org.

Hadi Partovi learned computer science so he could have games to play on the computer his father gave him (a Commodore 64) when he was 10 years old in Iran. Since then he has worked as computer programmer and also as an entrepreneur, investor, and as co-founder of Code.org, a nonprofit dedicated to growing computer science education in the US and worldwide. Hadi has been Microsoft’s Group Program Manager for Internet Explorer, was General Manager of MSN.com where he helped deliver 30% annual growth and MSN’s only year of profit. He was on the founding teams of Tellme and iLike. As an angel investor and startup advisor, Hadi’s portfolio includes Facebook, Zappos, Dropbox, airbnb, OPOWER, Flixster, Bluekai, TASER, and many others.
About TEDx, x = independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)

Linda Liukas believes that a movement in technology is already happening and that we need to engage everyone -- especially the next generation -- to take part. She wants to create a more diverse and colourful world of technology, starting with the poetry of code.

Linda Liukas is a programmer, storyteller and illustrator. Her children's book, Hello Ruby, raised a total of $380,000 on Kickstarter. She founded Rails Girls, which has organized workshops in over 230 cities, teaching the basics of programming to more than 10,000 women. Linda worked at Codeacademy, which she left to write stories that teach children about software and programming. She won the 2013 Ruby Hero prize and was named the Digital Champion of Finland by the EU Commissioner for Digital Agenda.

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at http://ted.com/tedx