Professional Development for Teachers
Cells to Code 2026 Professional Development
Course Description: This four-day professional development course introduces secondary education teachers to the intersection of computational thinking and biomedical research, emphasizing practical, classroom-ready applications. The first two days focus on computational thinking as a broadly applicable problem-solving approach that strengthens analysis, supports sense-making, and can be introduced through simple unplugged lessons or extended into coding when students need computational power to explore more complex questions. Participants will explore how computational approaches, including machine learning, data analysis, and algorithm development, support real-world biology and healthcare research.
Teachers will engage in hands-on activities at Sanford Research and affiliated locations. Activities may include collecting motion capture data for biomechanical analysis, designing machine learning models to classify complex data sets, and exploring emerging technologies used in healthcare and research. These experiences illustrate how computational thinking equips STEM professionals to tackle contemporary challenges in biology, healthcare, and data-driven decision making.
The course will feature guidance from the PROMISE team and the CAMSE team, who will demonstrate practical ways computation enhances research, fosters collaboration, and informs problem-solving in scientific contexts. Participants will also gain exposure to cutting-edge virtual healthcare tools, understanding how these technologies are applied today and how they are shaping the future of biomedical research and patient care.
By the end of the course, teachers will have practical strategies for integrating computational thinking and AI concepts into their classrooms, inspiring students to think critically, creatively, and analytically.
June 15–18, 2026 in Sioux Falls, SD
This course is capped at 24 educators.
2 credit available for purchases through USD at $40 each
$600 stipend available for those who attend all 4 days.
Please note this PD has reached capacity. To be added to the waitlist, please complete the registration form