Instructor Course for Children Education – Full Syllabus

Train-the-Trainer Program
“Empowering Educators to Inspire the Next Generation of Digital Creators & Cyber Defenders”

Part of the Cyber School 6-Year Pathway – Train-the-Trainer Program

📋 Program Overview

The Instructor Course for Children Education is a 150-hour comprehensive program designed to prepare educators to teach the Cyber School 6-Year Pathway, focusing on children and youth (Grades 4-9). The course emphasizes both technical skills and pedagogical strategies to effectively engage, inspire, and educate young learners in coding, AI, cybersecurity, and digital citizenship.

Program Structure:

• Total Hours: 150 hours
• Instructor-Led Sessions: 38 sessions (4 hours each) – 2 per week
• Asynchronous Self-Study Sessions: 19 sessions (3-4 hours each) – 1 per week
• Program Length: 19 Weeks
• Course Format: Blended Learning (Live sessions + Self-Study)

🎯 Program Goals:

By the end of the course, participants will:
✔ Master the Cyber School 6-Year Pathway curriculum (Cyber Kids → Cyber Battle Royale)
✔ Develop effective pedagogical strategies for teaching young learners
✔ Build strong classroom management skills for both in-person and online settings
✔ Lead teaching simulations and receive structured peer feedback
✔ Design engaging, project-based lessons tailored to diverse learning needs
✔ Earn the Certified Cyber School Youth Instructor credential

🗓️ Full Weekly Breakdown – Instructor-Led Sessions & Self-Study

Week 1: Introduction to Cyber School & Understanding Young Learners

Session 1: Welcome to Cyber School – Mission, Vision & The 6-Year Pathway

• Overview of Cyber School’s mission and 6-Year Pathway
• Understanding the role of educators in tech education
• Building a community of digital creators and cyber defenders

Session 2: Understanding the Mind of a Young Learner

• Child psychology basics (ages 9-15)
• Emotional intelligence, cognitive development, and social behavior
• Tailoring teaching approaches to developmental stages

Self-Study 1: Exploring Cyber School’s Curriculum

• Dive into the 6-Year Pathway
• Study sample lesson plans and student projects
• Write a reflection: “How I Plan to Inspire Creativity in My Students”

Week 2: Pedagogy & Engagement Strategies

Session 3: Gamification & Motivation Strategies

• The psychology of motivation in young learners
• Designing quests, badges, and CTF challenges
• Using storytelling to boost engagement

Session 4: Managing Online & In-Person Classrooms

• Best practices for virtual and hybrid classrooms
• Handling disruptions and managing diverse learning styles
• Creating inclusive learning environments

Self-Study 2: Child Psychology in the Classroom

• Study child development theories (Piaget, Vygotsky)
• Explore behavior management techniques
• Write a reflection: “Managing Challenging Classrooms”

Week 3: Foundations of Teaching Tech to Kids

Session 5: Teaching Computer Basics & Digital Safety

• Introducing file management, OS navigation, and keyboard shortcuts
• Digital citizenship, privacy, and safe browsing lessons
• Designing lessons that teach cybersecurity basics

Session 6: Teaching Coding Through Games (Scratch & Block Coding)

• Scratch coding fundamentals
• Project-based learning: building interactive games
• Debugging techniques for young learners

Self-Study 3: Mastering Scratch for Young Learners

• Complete Scratch projects (story, platformer, quiz)
• Analyze student-created games
• Prepare a mini-lesson for peer feedback

Week 4: Communication, Empathy & Classroom Dynamics

Session 7: Student Motivation & Encouraging Creativity

• Fostering a growth mindset
• Designing coding challenges that encourage exploration
• Recognizing and celebrating student achievements

Session 8: Effective Communication with Young Learners

• Active listening, empathy, and constructive feedback
• Strategies for building rapport and trust
• Supporting neurodiverse students and ESL learners

Self-Study 4: Understanding Online Safety & Cyberbullying Prevention

• Study laws (COPPA, FERPA)
• Explore strategies for handling cyberbullying
• Write: “Creating a Safe Digital Classroom”

Week 5: Curriculum Mastery – Cyber Kids & Minecraft Coding

Session 9: Cyber Kids Course Deep Dive

• Teaching computer fundamentals, Scratch coding, and digital citizenship
• Designing fun activities around file management and internet safety
• Introducing coding through storytelling

Session 10: Minecraft Coding & Engagement Strategies

• Using Minecraft Education for coding and collaboration
• Designing virtual projects and team-based challenges
• Managing online multiplayer sessions

Self-Study 5: Minecraft Education Technical Skills

• Build custom Minecraft worlds for classroom use
• Explore Redstone coding and command blocks
• Prepare a mini-lesson using Minecraft Education

Week 6: Curriculum Mastery – AI Explorer

Session 11: AI Explorer Course Deep Dive

• Introducing AI, machine learning, and ethical AI discussions
• Building simple AI models with Teachable Machine
• Exploring AI in real-world applications

Session 12: Hands-On AI – Building AI Models with Kids

• Training AI to recognize images and text
• Discussing AI bias and responsible AI use
• Running AI experiments with students

Self-Study 6: Exploring AI Education Tools

• Study AI tools (Teachable Machine, Cognimates)
• Build an AI chatbot or image classifier
• Write: “How to Make AI Accessible for Kids”

Week 7: Curriculum Mastery – Cyber Rangers

Session 13: Cyber Rangers Course Deep Dive

• Teaching ethical hacking, network defense, and threat hunting
• Using the Power Rangers theme to engage students
• Designing Capture the Flag (CTF) challenges

Session 14: Teaching CTFs & Red Team/Blue Team Strategies

• Running ethical hacking competitions
• Managing Red Team/Blue Team dynamics
• Teaching cybersecurity ethics and responsibility

Self-Study 7: Cybersecurity Fundamentals for Teaching

• Explore kid-friendly CTF platforms
• Participate in beginner-level CTF challenges
• Create a CTF lesson plan

Week 8: Curriculum Mastery – Python Security

Session 15: Python Security Course Deep Dive

• Transitioning students from block coding to Python
• Teaching secure coding principles
• Building simple cybersecurity tools in Python

Session 16: Teaching Secure Coding Practices to Kids

• Teaching basic encryption and password security
• Building Python games that incorporate cybersecurity lessons
• Debugging strategies for beginner programmers

Self-Study 8: Python for Cybersecurity

• Complete Python projects (password generator, basic encryption)
• Study real-world applications of Python in cybersecurity
• Prepare a Python mini-lesson

Week 9: Curriculum Mastery – Cyber Battle Royale

Session 17: Cyber Battle Royale Course Deep Dive

• Designing competitive CTF tournaments
• Teaching game theory through Red Team/Blue Team exercises
• Managing complex cybersecurity competitions

Session 18: Teaching Game Theory & Advanced CTFs

• Building balanced competitions
• Fostering teamwork, strategy, and problem-solving
• Running virtual cybersecurity tournaments

Self-Study 9: Exploring CTF Platforms & Competitive Cybersecurity Tools

• Study platforms (TryHackMe, Hack The Box)
• Create a mini-CTF challenge
• Write: “How Competitive Cybersecurity Teaches Problem-Solving”

Weeks 10-19: Advanced Pedagogy, Simulations, & Capstone

• Week 10: Classroom Management & Conflict Resolution
• Week 11: Project-Based Learning & Assessment Strategies
• Week 12: Storytelling & Real-World Relevance in Tech Lessons
• Weeks 13-16: Teaching Simulations & Peer Feedback
• Weeks 17-18: Final Teaching Simulations & Capstone Presentations
• Week 19: Final Evaluations, Career Planning & Graduation

🗓️ Weeks 10-19: Advanced Pedagogy, Simulations & Capstone

Week 10: Classroom Management & Conflict Resolution

“Creating Safe, Inclusive & Engaging Learning Environments”

Session 19: Engaging Diverse Learners & Supporting Different Learning Styles

Objective: Understand how to support neurodiverse learners, ESL students, and students with varying skill levels.

• Topics Covered:
  • Differentiating instruction for diverse learners
  • Supporting neurodiverse students (ADHD, autism, dyslexia)
  • Adapting lessons for ESL learners
  • Inclusive teaching strategies for hybrid classrooms
• Activities & Labs:
  • Workshop: Modify a coding lesson for different learning styles
  • Case Study: Analyze scenarios involving diverse student needs
  • Roleplay: Practice adapting teaching strategies for struggling learners

Session 20: Conflict Resolution & Classroom Management

Objective: Build skills in managing classroom dynamics, handling conflicts, and fostering a positive learning environment.

• Topics Covered:
  • Managing disruptions in both virtual and in-person settings
  • Conflict resolution strategies (peer disputes, off-task behavior)
  • Building respect, empathy, and teamwork in the classroom
  • Preventing and addressing cyberbullying
• Activities & Labs:
  • Roleplay: Practice handling common classroom conflicts
  • Workshop: Develop a classroom management plan
  • Simulation: Run a classroom with pre-planned challenges (disruptive students, technical issues)

Self-Study 10: Behavior Management & Motivation

• Study conflict resolution strategies in education
• Analyze real-world case studies of classroom challenges
• Write a reflection: “Creating a Safe & Inclusive Digital Classroom”
• Complete a quiz on conflict resolution techniques

Week 11: Project-Based Learning & Assessment Strategies

“Designing Meaningful Projects & Evaluating Student Success”

Session 21: Designing Project-Based Learning (PBL) Experiences

Objective: Master the principles of Project-Based Learning (PBL) to create engaging, long-term projects.

• Topics Covered:
  • The benefits of PBL in tech education
  • Planning student-centered, inquiry-driven projects
  • Balancing creativity, problem-solving, and technical skills
  • Incorporating real-world challenges into classroom projects
• Activities & Labs:
  • Workshop: Design a long-term PBL project for one of the Cyber School courses
  • Simulation: Run a mini PBL session and receive peer feedback
  • Peer Review: Evaluate the clarity and creativity of PBL designs

Session 22: Assessment Strategies for Tech Education

Objective: Develop strategies to fairly assess student projects, technical skills, and soft skills.

• Topics Covered:
  • Creating effective rubrics for coding, AI, and cybersecurity lessons
  • Assessing creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving
  • Implementing self-assessments and peer evaluations
  • Balancing summative and formative assessments
• Activities & Labs:
  • Workshop: Create a project rubric for a coding assignment
  • Simulation: Conduct peer evaluations using the designed rubric
  • Case Study: Review student projects and practice grading

Self-Study 11: Evaluating Student Work & Encouraging Growth

• Analyze real student projects from Cyber School courses
• Study best practices for providing constructive feedback
• Write: “How I Will Foster Growth & Creativity in My Students”
• Complete a quiz on PBL strategies and assessment methods

Week 12: Storytelling & Real-World Relevance in Tech Lessons

“Making Technical Content Engaging, Relatable & Impactful”

Session 23: Using Storytelling to Enhance Technical Learning

Objective: Learn how to use storytelling, narratives, and roleplay to make complex technical topics engaging and memorable.

• Topics Covered:
  • Why storytelling improves engagement and retention
  • Designing narrative-driven lessons (quests, missions, roleplay)
  • Using characters and gamified elements in lessons
  • Examples from Cyber School (e.g., Power Rangers-inspired Cyber Rangers)
• Activities & Labs:
  • Workshop: Design a narrative-based lesson (e.g., “Save Cyber City”)
  • Lab: Create a story-driven coding challenge in Scratch or Minecraft
  • Simulation: Lead a storytelling-based lesson and receive peer feedback

Session 24: Bringing Real-World Relevance into the Classroom

Objective: Connect technical lessons to real-world applications and current events, helping students see the impact of their skills.

• Topics Covered:
  • Why real-world connections boost engagement
  • Tying lessons to tech careers and industry applications
  • Designing socially-conscious lessons (e.g., AI bias, ethical hacking)
  • Using guest speakers and virtual field trips
• Activities & Labs:
  • Workshop: Create a “Real-World Tech Challenge” project
  • Simulation: Run a lesson that links technical content to real-world issues
  • Debrief: Share insights on making lessons impactful and relevant

Self-Study 12: Exploring Student Engagement Techniques

• Study examples of lessons that successfully use storytelling and real-world connections
• Write: “How I Will Make My Lessons Meaningful & Memorable”
• Complete a quiz on storytelling strategies and project-based learning

Weeks 13-16: Teaching Simulations & Peer Feedback

“Practicing, Refining & Perfecting Teaching Techniques”

Week 13: Preparation for Teaching Simulations

Sessions 25-26:

• Design a 20-minute mini-lesson for classroom simulations
• Practice classroom management, student engagement, and adaptability
• Run simulations and receive peer feedback

Week 14: Minecraft & AI Simulations

Sessions 27-28:

• Lead lessons from Programming Through Games (Minecraft) and AI Explorer
• Practice leading collaborative activities and simplifying complex concepts
• Incorporate storytelling and real-world examples into lessons

Week 15: Capstone Prep & Advanced Topics

Sessions 29-30:

• Plan a 1-hour capstone lesson that integrates engagement strategies, real-world relevance, and assessment
• Address common classroom challenges and build contingency plans
• Practice the capstone lesson with peer feedback

Self-Study 13-15:

• Analyze classroom recordings
• Revise lesson plans based on peer reviews
• Reflect: “How My Teaching Style Has Evolved”

Weeks 17-18: Final Teaching Simulations & Capstone Presentations

“Showcasing Your Skills in the Final Capstone Project”

Session 31-32: Capstone Presentations (Part 1 & 2)

• Deliver a 1-hour lesson to peers and mentors
• Focus on student engagement, lesson flow, and real-world relevance
• Receive in-depth peer and mentor feedback

Session 33-34: Final Peer Review & Portfolio Building

• Compile all lesson plans, assessments, and reflections into a professional portfolio
• Prepare for certification interviews
• Participate in final peer reviews and self-assessments

Self-Study 16-18:

• Finalize teaching portfolio
• Complete certification requirements
• Write: “My Journey as a Tech Educator & My Future Vision”

Week 19: Final Evaluations, Career Planning & Graduation

“Celebrating Success & Planning the Next Steps in Your Teaching Journey”

Session 37: Final Evaluations & Growth Planning

• Personalized instructor feedback on capstone and portfolio
• Build a 5-year professional growth plan
• Discuss leadership opportunities in tech education

Session 38: Career Planning & Graduation

• Resume & LinkedIn optimization workshop
• Job search strategies in tech education
• Graduation Ceremony: Award of the Certified Cyber School Youth Instructor credential
• Networking session with Cyber School leaders and alumni

Self-Study 19: Post-Graduation Success Plan

• Prepare for classroom teaching
• Explore continuing education opportunities
• Write: “How I Plan to Inspire the Next Generation of Digital Creators”

🎓 Certification Outcome:

Certified Cyber School Youth Instructor

Graduates will be fully prepared to lead Cyber School’s 6-Year Pathway courses and create engaging, inclusive tech education experiences for students.