Now that Trinket has shut down we have had to move our Python code templates elsewhere. We have chosen GoCodeIt and Dodona. As an added bonus, these platforms not only provide an online IDE, they also include template pages for storing the associated introductions, videos and programming guide for the exercises too. That means there is no longer a need for students to manage multiple windows: one with the Time2Code exercise on our website and the boilerplate code in another window.
We have updated our getting started guide in the about section of this website with basic instructions for using GoCodeIt.
As part of this transition, the flowcharts and Parsons problems are no longer available directly through the Time2Code website. Feedback from many teachers indicated that students were often relying on these resources as a first option rather than attempting to solve problems independently. In particular, having unrestricted access to flowcharts and Parsons problems sometimes encouraged students to depend on scaffolding when they were ready to tackle challenges on their own.
Teacher support resources still available
The good news is that these resources have not disappeared entirely.
Flowcharts and Parsons problems are now included in the new Time2Code Teacher Support Pack. If you do not have access to the Craig'n'Dave Key Stage 4 or Key Stage 5 Resource Centre, you can request the support pack directly from Craig'n'Dave by email.
Click here to find out how to request your teacher support pack.
If you already have access to the KS4/5 Resource Centre, simply log in to craigndave.org and download the Teacher Support Pack here: Time2Code Teacher support pack - Craig 'n' Dave
What's included in the Teacher support pack?
The pack contains:
- Model solutions for all Python programs.
- Model solutions for all C# programs.
- Flowcharts that can be provided to students who need additional support.
- Parsons problems for most programming tasks.
- Answers to the Python programming activities in Smart Revise for Pearson Edexcel 1CP2.
Using Time2Code with GoCodeIt and Dodona
Time2Code is still 100% free on either GoCodeIt or Dodona.
For teachers looking for additional classroom management and assessment tools these are available in a paid-for plan. You don't need it, but it makes the management of the tasks easier. GoCodeIt's premium features include:
- Student and class management, including bulk student uploads and streamlined account administration.
- Built-in support features such as Parsons problems, fill-in-the-blank exercises, example solutions, and configurable student support options.
- Automatic marking for projects and assignments, alongside a built-in markbook for quickly monitoring student progress.
- The ability to manually review work and provide comments where desired.
- Tools for creating custom programming projects and challenges, complete with self-testing and automated marking.
- AI-powered written feedback to help students improve their programming solutions.
GoCodeIt and Dodona provide a flexible platform for delivering Time2Code while giving teachers greater control over student support, assessment, and feedback.
Some teachers have asked us to support them with the GoCodeIt platform, or enquired about whether we can provide them with a trial of a paid-for plan. Please be aware that GoCodeIt and Dodona are separate companies so you will need to reach out to them directly for support. Craig'n'Dave simply provide the pedagogy and exercises, not the platform. It's a bit like we put videos on YouTube but that doesn't mean we can provide you with YouTube premium!
