Disney’s Hour of Code

For three years, Disney partnered with Code.org to bring the Hour of Code Project to life, connecting kids worldwide to the fundamentals of computer science through interactive online tutorials. These tutorials were uniquely designed to captivate young learners by featuring beloved Disney characters, transforming coding into an engaging and approachable activity.

PURPOSE:

Inspire the next generation of coders

Disney’s purpose behind the Hour of Code is to inspire and engage young learners in computer science by making coding fun, accessible, and creative through the use of beloved characters and storytelling.

Combining storytelling and coding

Each year, a different set of iconic characters took the lead, adding excitement and variety to the learning experience. This year, kids joined Moana, the fearless Hawaiian teenager from Disney’s animated adventure, as she navigated challenges that combined storytelling with coding. The previous year saw young coders teaming up with Princess Leia and R2-D2 from Star Wars: The Force Awakens, introducing them to a galaxy of possibilities through technology. In the inaugural year, Elsa and Anna from Frozen helped kids “let it code” as they created dazzling icy patterns and animations.

These interactive tutorials not only taught essential coding concepts but also empowered kids to think creatively and problem-solve, while fostering a connection to STEM education through the magic of Disney storytelling.

Our role in Disney’s Hour of Code

Nicole Rustad played a key role in Disney’s Hour of Code initiative by overseeing the corporate sustainability and partnerships aspects of the project. She worked on selecting and managing the educational content, ensuring that the program aligned with Disney's values of creativity, innovation, and inclusion. Additionally, Nicole engaged internal stakeholders and external partners to amplify the program’s impact, creating a sense of shared accomplishment across the organization and helping drive participation in the global event.

Results

The results of Disney's involvement in the Hour of Code were remarkable, with the initiative reaching over 100 million educators and students globally, including a targeted focus on girls, with over 50% of participants identifying as female. The program was activated in every Apple Store and in 24 key markets worldwide, including the United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Russia, France, Japan, and China.

In addition to Disney's internal efforts, strategic partnerships were formed with organizations such as Microsoft, ABC, ESPN, Family Code Night, the U.S. Department of Education, and the Boys and Girls Club of America, further amplifying the campaign's reach and impact. The initiative’s success was recognized with prestigious awards, including a Silver Halo award for “Best Digital Campaign” and a Gold Halo award for “Best Educational Campaign,” the most recognized corporate cause award in North America.

Previous
Previous

Disney Club Penguin: Coins for Change

Next
Next

EverForest: A Play-to-Plant mobile game