Where technology meets creativity, and girls build the future. Join us to learn, create, and compete in a supportive environment designed to launch your tech career!
To provide a supportive and engaging environment for students in 8th-12th grade to explore the world of coding, design, and technology.
Our Community
A diverse group of young people passionate about technology, supporting each other through learning challenges and celebrating victories together.
Our Mantra
"A place to meet, create, and compete." We believe in the power of connection, creativity, and healthy competition to inspire growth.
Our Goals
Design Thinking
Introduce industry-standard UI/UX principles and creative problem-solving methodologies.
Swift & SwiftUI
Master Apple's powerful programming language and create stunning, responsive interfaces.
Problem-Solving
Develop critical thinking skills by tackling real-world challenges with technological solutions.
Community
Build confidence, foster teamwork, and create a supportive network of future tech leaders.
Club Meeting Details
When We Meet
Every Wednesday from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the iOS Design Lab. Perfect timing to dive into tech after school!
Arrival & Chat
The first 15 minutes are dedicated to casual conversation, tech news updates, and getting settled in.
Lesson & Activity
Engaging 45-minute instruction followed by hands-on activities to reinforce concepts and spark creativity.
Project Work & Wrap-up
Dedicated time to work on individual and group projects with mentor guidance, ending with progress sharing.
Phase 1: Design Thinking and UI Design
Empathize
Learn to understand user needs through research and interviews. Discover the importance of empathy in design.
Define
Transform research into clear problem statements. Frame challenges in a way that inspires innovative solutions.
Ideate
Generate creative solutions through brainstorming techniques. Learn to think outside the box.
Prototype
Create wireframes and digital prototypes using professional tools like Figma and Canva.
Phase 2: Introduction to Swift and SwiftUI
Swift Fundamentals
Master the basics of Apple's powerful programming language including variables, data types, and operators. Learn how to think like a programmer and write clean, efficient code.
Control Flow & Logic
Build on fundamentals with if/else statements, loops, and functions. Develop the logical thinking skills needed to solve complex programming challenges.
SwiftUI Mastery
Create beautiful, responsive user interfaces with Apple's cutting-edge UI framework. Learn to build views, manage layouts, and add interactivity to your apps.
Sample Activity: Problem Spotting
The Challenge
Working in small teams, members identify real problems in their community that could be solved with technology. This exercise sharpens observation skills and teaches empathy-based design.
For example, one team might focus on improving the library experience by creating an app that helps users navigate the stacks more efficiently or discover new books based on interests.
The Process
Observe users in their environment
Interview potential users about pain points
Define the core problem clearly
Brainstorm possible solutions
Sketch initial concepts
Present findings to the group
Create and Compete
End-of-Program Showcase
Present your completed projects to industry professionals
App Design Challenge
Create innovative iOS app solutions for real-world problems
Swift Coding Challenge
Test your coding skills against other teams
Competitions are integrated throughout the program to motivate learning and celebrate achievements. These friendly contests provide valuable experience with deadlines, presentations, and teamwork while preparing you for future tech competitions and hackathons.
What You'll Need
Technology
Access to Apple devices (iPads/MacBooks) will be provided during meetings. Personal devices are welcome but not required.
Software
We'll use Swift Playgrounds, Xcode, Figma, and Canva - all available for free with educational accounts we'll help you set up.
Learning Materials
All digital and physical resources will be provided, including online tutorials, documentation, notebooks, and design materials.
Your Creativity
The most important tool is your unique perspective and creative thinking - bring your ideas and enthusiasm!
Join iDev Launchpad Today!
How do I sign up?
Registration is easy! Complete our online form at ideveloplaunchpad.org or speak with our club sponsor, Mrs. Johnson, in Room 204. No prior coding experience required!
What if I've never coded before?
Perfect! We designed this club specifically for beginners. Our step-by-step curriculum ensures everyone can follow along, regardless of experience level.
Are there any costs involved?
Thanks to our generous sponsors, participation is completely FREE! All equipment, software, and materials are provided at no cost to members.
How competitive is the club?
While we incorporate fun competitions and challenges, our environment is supportive rather than cutthroat. We emphasize personal growth and collaboration over intense competition.
Ready to Launch Your Tech Journey?
100%
Hands-On Learning
Every session includes practical, project-based activities to reinforce concepts
12+
Projects
Complete exciting app design and development projects throughout the year
3
Competitions
Showcase your skills and win prizes in our trimester design and coding challenges
∞
Opportunities
Open doors to scholarships, internships, and future careers in technology
Join us Wednesdays from 3-5 PM at Irving Library and become part of a community where girls code, create, and compete! Email [email protected] or text IDEV to 555-123-4567 to get started.