We live in a digital age in which computers are everywhere and have become an essential part of our lives. Every student should have access to technology, whether it be computers, smart phones, or tablets because almost everything we do requires some form of programming.
Coding or computer programming is writing a set of instructions that a computer understands so it will perform a task. There are several advantages of learning to code in elementary school.
- First, learning programming empowers kids. Coding puts children in control of the computer and through experimentation builds mastery in sequencing skills, counting, problem solving, logical thinking, cause and effect, and critical thinking.
- Additionally, children can express themselves through code and find it cool to create games, apps, and websites and to even control robots.
- Another benefit of teaching coding at a young age is facilitating problem-solving in a group setting. This is a fundamental skill that students will rely on throughout their education and in the workforce.
- The earlier we introduce coding to children, the more comfortable they will become with computers and technology and the more successful they will become when presented with more challenging learning opportunities.
- Coding allows students to be creative without being wrong. If something doesn’t work, students must figure out why and determine how to fix it.
