Wired: How the Internet Works and Why It Matters

Hello! My name is Tom Shiflet and I teach a variety of computer science, game design and math classes tied together with game programming as a hands-on "math lab"! I am a game industry veteran, having worked on about 20 PC games in the past, I've worked in the IT industry and have over 15 years teaching experience at top level college prep schools and universities. Currently, in addition to teaching on Outschool, I'm an indie game developer, with two games currently released on the Steam platform (called "Askaya: Remnants of Ajuna" and "Eyes of the Night"). 

In the game industry, I worked in the role of producer (project manager), game designer, and general manager of an independent studio. I am passionate about video games and I am excited to bring that passion and experience here to help the next generation of game designers and developers get started building the skills needed! In teaching math classes, I have always applied practical lessons of the math concepts through fun and interactive coding "labs." 

For my computer science classes, I take a different approach than many CS teachers...I understand that not everyone will need a lot of things that are taught in typical computer science classes. BUT, I do believe that the thought skills taught by using computer science are extremely important, even if you end up going into law, medicine, engineering, business, etc. So I focus on key thinking skills and we exercise those skills by using the subject matter of computer science.

Additionally, I teach a series of classes called the “Wired.” series that cover key areas of living in this “wired” world of ours. These topics include things like: the Internet, how to use social media effectively, how find and evaluate sources online, personal finance, etc. These are “real life” skills that college students are constantly saying that they wish that they had learned in high school, but are rarely taught. 

In my time when I’m not teaching, I enjoy the playing video games with my son, being outside camping, hiking and fishing, and playing anywhere around water. I also have had the chance to travel to many different countries to serve refugees and kids that have been abandoned or orphaned by war. I’ve been to Iraq many times, as well as Yemen, Thailand, Vietnam, Senegal, Guatemala, El Salvador, Dominican Republic and more. 

In my years working with high school students all around the world, I’ve experienced how powerful and impactful students can be and I’m thankful for the opportunity to help guide students as they prepare to be leaders of the next generation!

Tom

Random Facts About Me:
- I had the chance to give a TEDx talk about what I've learned from working with kids around the world.
- I speak a few different languages (and write code in many others). 
- I love learning...I'm always teaching myself something new and reading (mostly non-fiction).
- I have a son and an "almost" daughter (an international student that lived with us for 3 years that is like family to us).

CLASS RULES

- I don’t require cameras to be on (though I need to verify you by video at the beginning of the class), but if you have yours on, please be sure that your setting and clothing are appropriate. Be comfortable...but be wise with your choices.
- Please respect class time by muting your mic if there is a lot of background noise. 
- I LOVE class discussions and questions, but try to stay on topic. 
- We will always treat each other with respect. Always. Failure to do so will result in students being removed from class.
- There is room to try things and fail. Just keep trying. If you don’t understand something, please let me know. If you have questions, don’t be afraid to ask. But always try...and if you don’t get it the first time, then try again...you’ll get there. I promise!