Idea No. 11: Make Computing and Coding Standard in K-12
Exposing our young generation to general computing and coding is still treated as special events in schools. There are hour of code events, learn to code tours, coding/programming electives and what have you. Why not make computing and coding one of the standard subjects in K-12?
As common computers and devices are nowadays, the subject of computing in early school years are still about using the keyboard and mouse. Most of the time, schools do this because the new state and federal school tests are through computers. Without these basic skills, the students may not be able to perform well in the tests.
The motivation is understandable. However, the opportunity to let the students learn more about computing is also being wasted. Children can learn about computers and networking faster than most adults can. Basic understanding of how the computer works, how networking works and how the Internet works can be meaningful information to kids as they grow more and more exposed to these electronic devices at home and in school.
Knowledge about computing in general can easily instill responsible use. Likewise, early discussion about being smart and safe when using computers and digital devices should be taught to kids early, and further at home care of school guided materials. Knowing what and understanding why are trainings that can be started as soon as the child can meaningfully interact with computers, and similar appliances or devices.
What can make computing subjects most interesting is when the kids learn early that they are in control with regards to telling the computer what to do. As all these hour of code and learn to code tours already know, even Kindergarten kids can code and program if given the right tools and proper direction. It can even go as far as touching a little bit on robotics. Why not, right?
Modernizing education should not stop at just providing one PC/tablet per child programs. Modernizing education should also include talking about them, how they work, and how we can use them. The young generation can be taught early to appreciate the technologies around them. They can be taught early to become builders/creators, and not just users. After all, they will be participants to making these technologies progress in the future.
As common computers and devices are nowadays, the subject of computing in early school years are still about using the keyboard and mouse. Most of the time, schools do this because the new state and federal school tests are through computers. Without these basic skills, the students may not be able to perform well in the tests.
The motivation is understandable. However, the opportunity to let the students learn more about computing is also being wasted. Children can learn about computers and networking faster than most adults can. Basic understanding of how the computer works, how networking works and how the Internet works can be meaningful information to kids as they grow more and more exposed to these electronic devices at home and in school.
Knowledge about computing in general can easily instill responsible use. Likewise, early discussion about being smart and safe when using computers and digital devices should be taught to kids early, and further at home care of school guided materials. Knowing what and understanding why are trainings that can be started as soon as the child can meaningfully interact with computers, and similar appliances or devices.
What can make computing subjects most interesting is when the kids learn early that they are in control with regards to telling the computer what to do. As all these hour of code and learn to code tours already know, even Kindergarten kids can code and program if given the right tools and proper direction. It can even go as far as touching a little bit on robotics. Why not, right?
Modernizing education should not stop at just providing one PC/tablet per child programs. Modernizing education should also include talking about them, how they work, and how we can use them. The young generation can be taught early to appreciate the technologies around them. They can be taught early to become builders/creators, and not just users. After all, they will be participants to making these technologies progress in the future.
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