There is no doubt that new technologies are going to drive the future and help us improve the world. However, most of the burden remains on the shoulders of young generations and it is our duty, as parents, guardians, and teachers, to provide them with all the tools they’ll need to function in a world dominated by technology.
Luckily, this feeling is shared across the world and both teachers and tech specialists agree we need to find a way to attract children towards the disciplines that support new technologies (like engineering, coding, mathematics, science, and more). As a result, nowadays, there are plenty of online platforms, apps, and organizations that aim to help children understand coding.
Hour of Code (or HOC) is one such organization (it’s a non-profit scheme), and its purpose is to help young students understand and discover computer science and programming using a one hour long tutorials and events. Right now, the platform is available worldwide and any organization or business can use the format in order to promote coding and computer science to youngsters.
Now, if you’re still on the fence about getting your kids involved with coding from a young age, you should know it’s all for their future, whether they choose a career in this direction or not.
Here’s why:
It Helps Develop A Wide Array of Skills
Coding is a complex activity, with several layers of thinking involved in the process. For instance, coders are problem-solvers who need to gather data, analyze the given parameters, and evaluate the situation. In addition, most projects require collaboration, so there are some social skills involved as well.
So, it’s not just about writing lines of instructions; it’s also about learning to see the world from different perspectives and developing new skills such as lateral thinking, reasoning, logical interpretation, and problem-solving.
Moreover, an approach that divides the learning time into manageable segments is ideal for children. As a result, many platforms that teach kids how to code using cute visuals and blocks of code have their own Hour of Code events or sections.
It Is A Skill That Stays Relevant
Unlike many of the things children learn in school, coding is a skill that will stay relevant for the foreseeable future. True, the languages used may change and the future programs may be more complex and use different settings, but the basics will always be the same.
In addition, young children don’t learn a specific language - they learn how to build a coding structure and how everything works by using various game-like systems. If they like it, they may be more interested in the topic when they reach school age, which may open the road for a career in tech.
It Increases the Drive for Learning
The idea that once you’re out of school you’re done with learning is old-fashioned and quite dangerous in a world where everything changes and adapts. Therefore, if the kids have fun learning how to code, they’ll be open to learning and will enjoy themselves while practicing their skills.
New Technologies are Everywhere
It may be difficult to see it, but modern technologies are integrated with most of the current business and industrial sectors. From smart robots that can build machines to smart vehicles that drive themselves, to technologically-enhanced healthcare systems, we find a piece of modern tech wherever we turn.
Considering this development and the trends predicted by specialists, it’s almost certain that the future will be even more tech-oriented. Therefore, it is important to open our kid’s road and help them get the skills they need.
