Imagi is the coding platform designed to be fun and game-like while sticking to curriculum-based coding teaching.
ImagiLabs, the company behind this platform, went into this with education in mind specifically. More to the point, this was created as a way to assist teachers in getting the curriculum across to students, while staying as fun and game-like as possible.
Unlike many other options out there, this also offers physical charms with LED lights that students can program for real-world STEM experiences of their coding having an affect.
This guide aims to lay out all you need to know about Imagi in your class.
What is Imagi?
Imagi is a platform designed to help students learn, and educators teach, coding to ensure skills in the Python language.
This web-based system is built to be accessible from most devices and to enable teacher-level controls. Yet, it's also designed to be gamified for the most STEM fun for students while still learning those curriculum-based lessons.
The addition of ImagiCharms, real-world gadgets with 64 LEDs, helps make the experience more tangible so students can feel empowered by the effects their coding can have in the physical world.
Designed for grades 3-9, this covers the basics but also takes learning to more complex levels so students can use their understanding of Python coding in real-world situations.
Crucially, this offers a bridge from block-based coding into text-based languages that's perfect for the starter age group this caters to initially.
How does Imagi work?
Imagi offers a selection of pre-made lessons, slides, worksheets, and more, which all make this easy to use, even for teachers with little to no coding teaching knowledge. Even beginners should be able to teach Python with this system.
Since this is standards-aligned and curriculum-based, teachers should be able to simply create a class and begin assigning work for students. The teacher dashboard allows for this as well as tracking of progress and assessment understanding, all in one place.
The lessons are gamified, making the learning engaging while also offering code editor options so the freedom to be creative is also available here.
What are the best Imagi features?
Imagi features the physical ImagiCharms, which are small gadgets with 64-LED screens. These can be programmed by students to see their coding efforts have real-world effects.
This process is referred to as Matrix coding, and it lets students write what the 8x8 pixel grid is displaying. Students can create pixel art and animations that pair to the device so they can view it live.
Teachers have a helpful dashboard that allows them to work through the curriculum. This also offers a place to monitor student progress so as to offer feedback and support as needed.
The AI-powered debugging buddy offers students personalized feedback and support to save teachers on time.
How much does Imagi cost?
Imagi comes in several versions including a free option, and then tiers to suit needs.
The Free version gets you the first four lessons that equates to about eight hours of learning. You also get classroom management for up to 50 students, plus guided onboarding.
The Pro version, at $18/student, gets you more than 30 lessons, which is more than 50 hours, the AI Bebugging Buddy, personalized onboarding, co-teachers, and discounted ImagiCharms sets.
School and district plans are also available at custom quote prices, for buying in bulk.
Imagi best tips and tricks
Make art and math
Use the 8x8 grid programming to make art or work on coordinate geometry all while teaching coding.
Go Pro
Opt for the Pro version to take advantage of time-saving features such as the AI debugging buddy feature.
Use projects
Follow pre-made projects to hit curriculum goals while also playing with pixel art and allowing students to learn about the ImagiCharms.
