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Right off the hop, the first thing that I really liked is how Code.org had the option to navigate the website in up to 68 languages, from English to Bosanski! This means that the program is not only accessible for English-speaking students – as typically limited to – but also allows for EAL students to continue to grow in their L1. Whoop whoop 🤗!
From there, I went into the Hour of Code category, and got to work. Adding another positive to the list, there are options both for students and for educators. As a learner for today, I chose the student option.
Being an early educator, I chose a Pre-Reader to Grade 1 activity: Coding Twinkle Little Star in ScratchJr. Which adds ANOTHER positive, the program has lessons designed for specific age ranges… do the positives ever stop? AND for FREE? Craziness.
With this lesson, there are provided Google Slides, a read aloud option, and a step-by-step walk through of the coding lesson. Through the tutorial, we explore the ScratchJr app… which is ALSO free… another win.
The one downfall with ScratchJr to note is that you need either an Apple tablet or an Android tablet to get the app. Which means if you do not have the luxury of classroom iPads, you might be out of luck. However, I was able to get the app on my iPhone!
The tutorial was amazing! Not only did it explain each step, but also each part of the program (icons, actions, settings, etc.). Making it great for coding newbies like myself. I also enjoyed how the program looked the exact same whether you were on a tablet or an iPhone – removing any risk of confusion due to a difference in format. Overall, I think coding is amazing for everyone, young or old, to learn! Not only is it fun, but it also adds a sense of inquiry and appreciation when one can see the behind the scenes of their favorite apps or video games. If you feel so keen, you can even create your own! For students in the classroom, coding – whether binary, JavaScript, or block – helps students learn a variety of skills, such as:
- Inputs/Outputs
- Problem solving skills
- Algorithm
- Loops
- Paying attention to detail
- Patterns
- Correcting mistakes
And much more! In our technology driven world, coding is a great way to teach crucial concepts, such as problem solving, while keeping your teaching content relevant. If you have access to technology in the classroom, I highly recommend incorporating some coding! You never know what doors you may open for your learners.
Before I end this post off, I want to hear from you! Have you learned how to code before? Was this your first time? Let me know what your learning experience was like in the comments below 💻.
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