Developing Out of This World Coding Skills with CJ Threads

CJ Threads brings a new level of fun and interactive learning to Code Jumper. Building on foundational skills, CJ Threads places users into a world of music and adventure as they learn to navigate more advanced coding.  

About CJ Threads  

Designed to transition students from block-based coding to text-based coding, CJ Threads is a new fully accessible module in Code Jumper. This learning module introduces students to Python, a world recognized text-based coding platform, all within the familiar context of Code Jumper. Using the Code Jumper format not only helps students to maintain confidence in a familiar system but ensures that CJ Threads remains a fully accessible introduction into the world of text-based code. While most coding programs use a graphical output, the two programs have been adapted with audio output to create a clear and enjoyable system for students who are blind or low vision. 

Inside CJ Threads, users will explore a foreign planet with CJ the DJ, pulling from a new collection of musical sounds, and unlimited opportunity for brilliant combinations, as they venture through space themed musical missions.  “One of the most exciting features of CJ Threads beyond learning to use the concepts of Python, is the new sound set “CJ the DJ”. This new sound set allows students to explore programming using the fun activity of creating their own music by combining different elements such as Bass, Rhythm, Harmony, and Melody,” said APH Product Manager, Katrina Best. Alongside the opportunity for freely developing musical creations, users will complete activities designed to make their introduction into text-based coding fun and entertaining.  

Student Impact  

“CJ Threads is important because it helps students transfer their skills in block-based coding in Code Jumper to text-based coding,” said APH Product Manager, Michael McDonald. “Since many block-based coding systems are not fully accessible, Code Jumper helps students learn those skills, and now − with CJ Threads, transfer them to text based coding using Python.”. With access to more of the coding world in an accessible format, students can develop not only the skills, but the confidence they need to pursue education and careers within the world of coding. CJ Threads will help students with computational thinking, screen reader skills, text-based coding, Python, sequencing, decision making, problem solving, and debugging. It aligns with several of the CSTA K-12 standards in developing computer science skills for students in an engaging way.  

CJ Threads will be available for all Code Jumper users once the Code Jumper application has been updated to its newest version. Based on individual settings, the application may not update on its own, so be sure to check your Windows app store for any available updates that have not yet been installed. For users who are new to Code Jumper, the product is available at a new and lower price point on the APH webpage. Once the Code Jumper application has been installed and updated, an instruction screen will appear to all users, explaining how to download the CJ Threads module, allowing students to jump into the game and utilize the Python program!  

For more information on installing CJ Threads, check out this video. Get ready for a whole new world of coding and download CJ Threads now!