Want to learn to program an app, or maybe a game?

Hoping to spark an interest in computer programming, including mobile app development, James Madison University will participate in the national Hour of Code event again this year, but with a twist.

On Saturday, Dec. 6., the computer science department will host Computer Science for Virginia Day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Integrated Science and Technology building on JMU's campus east of Interstate 81. The event will introduce a variety of computer science concepts from programming languages to mobile app development through one-hour sessions of hands on programming activities.

"We would like to invite every member of the community, whether they are a student, a professional or a parent to participate in the event and be the change," said Dr. Farzana Rahman, assistant professor of computer science.

CS4Va. Day was planned in conjunction with Computer Science Education Week from Dec. 8-14. The Hour of Code is part of an initiative to promote computer science learning among school children across the country.