At the end of Term 2 I decided proposed adding computer coding to the middle team's ICT programme. I had worked with the Hour of Code (www.coding.org) with intermediate students in 2015 and realised what a great tool it was to introduce students of all levels to computer sciences and the other digital technologies.
While the programme is disguised as a set of puzzles and games, the deep thinking, problem solving, perseverance and inter-personal communication that is elicited is amazing. The students are always highly motivated to progress through the lessons.
I have found many of my lower leveled students have found a sense of achievement and independence through the introduction of coding. The methodical approach, where errors are to be expected and trying different approaches is key, allows the students to see how real world problems can be solved through communication and perseverance.
One of the main reasons I love class coding sessions is that I am not anywhere near a computer coding expert- most times I am learning alongside the students, which allows for rich learning teacher-student conversations and the modelling of life-long learning by the teacher.
I hope to continue the coding and unlock the real-world applications for the students; the school has a computer lab, 3D printer and robotics kit which I would love to see utilised in a fuller capacity.
I believe starting my class with coding now will allow them to become creators, rather than just consumers in this digital age.
