Learning to code requires time and dedication. While it may seem overwhelming at first, with practice and consistency, coding can be mastered by just about anyone. Schools that follow the IB curriculum usually adopt the STEAM (Science Technology Engineering and Math) system and teach coding in classrooms to cover the ‘technology’ aspect of learning. Renowned schools in Dubai and across the Middle East, such as; Ignite School, Greenfield International School, GEMS Modern Academy, and many others, follow the modern curricula with emphasis on computer literacy and build strong technological soundness by teaching programming languages.
What is Coding?
Coding also referred to as computer programming is how we communicate with computers. Just as we communicate with each other in English, computers need to be given instructions in a language understood by them.
When the person makes an input, a code tells the computer what action it should take. By learning coding language, you can tell the computer what it is expected to do and how it should be done.
Coding helps us create innovative apps, build robots to help improve efficiency, and make machines work the way we want them to. Every aspect of life is now dependent on technology and by the day it’s becoming smarter and more adaptive to match the growing demands of humans.
The most popular coding languages are; C++, JavaScript, PHP, and Python. One has to learn the correct syntax and commands to be used to write the codes.
Block Based Coding
This is an easy or entry-level coding practice. Block based coding or programming uses ‘drag & drop’ feature where students have to move ‘blocks’ to construct games and apps. The learners are engaged more visually rather than writing complex texts, which makes it simpler for them to grasp the concept of coding. Kids benefit from computation thinking which helps them become better problem-solvers and deep thinkers.
What are blocks?
These blocks as we call them are chunks of pieces that carry instructions and when multiple blocks are brought together, a certain function is performed. Each block has its own basic function; for example; move up, change colour, etc.
Benefits of Block Coding
This method helps children learn how coding works and gives them an opportunity to explore their creativity by working on innovative tech solutions. There are multiple benefits of block coding, some of them are as under;
Saves Time on Writing Codes
High level codes are usually written by Engineers who have computer programming skills. So, ones who haven’t received any formal training can still code thanks to block-based coding. It saves up time on actually learning to write text-based codes. Also, using block codes does not require any knowledge of syntax and memorizing of complex rules.
Visual Programming
Visual programming is easy to comprehend and makes the coder think via simple illustrations. Visual programming allows programmers to think in a logical manner. For example; when one wants to create a shopping list, each item should appear one by one in the cart with the price and the quantity. The person needs to know what step by step stages does he wants to work on and accordingly select the ‘blocks’ to complete the function.
Opportunity for Trial & Error
Since each block has a different function, students can use trial methods to pair different blocks and group blocks as per the output they wish to achieve. If they are dissatisfied with a particular outcome, they may re-try and choose a different set of blocks without any hassle, or wastage of time.
The LEGO® Education SPIKE™ Prime engages students in STEAM activities where coding is incorporated to build workable models by students. Children experiment with block-based SCRATCH programming by arranging Scratch Blocks to make the ‘robot’ perform different functions. To learn more about LEGO® Education SPIKE™ Prime sets and to purchase them anywhere across GCC or UAE, visit our website: