KBLOG 60: Kurtz Academy: Dream School Curriculum, Free Computer Coding Resources for Students

Written By Richard Kurtz

by Julia M. Cameron

The Challenge:

Some coding experts are predicting that as artificial intelligence increases in sophistication and ease of use it may overtake computer coding. Artificial intelligence tools have been developed to assist and augment computer programmers that can access blocks of code, help to optimize code and detect and correct potential program bugs. Most programmers are now using AI tools to help them develop and improve computer programs. Does application of AI to coding mean that computer programming skills should no longer be taught to students? This SHORT VIDEO explains why teaching kids to code is still important. Reasons and suggestion are:

1.      Learn critical thinking skills.

2.     Language is not of upmost important, starting with simpler languages going to more complex (Python/Java/C)

3.     Younger the person is starting the more confidence and interest they will have in STEM.

4.    Build confidence, and logic task sequences.

5.    Teach coding starting an early age.

6.    Helps develop resilience.

7.     Expand creativity.

Many of my former students suggest to me that no matter what college track or career a current student has in mind being able to code is a great skill to have! That is why at Kurtz Academy students will learn how to code.

Solutions:

The following websites contain age-specific valuable information to help your help your students/children to code.

Free resources broken down for specific age groups.

https://tinyurl.com/Code-For-Kids

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FREE coding classes for youngsters.

https://www.create-learn.us/coding-for-kids/free-classes - Free Coding Classes for Kids.

https://www.coderkids.com/blog/top-10-free-coding-programs-for-kids - Top 10 Free Coding Programs for Kids.

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Coding competitions

https://www.create-learn.us/blog/coding-competitions-for-kids-teens/ -

https://www.codemonkey.com/blog/computer-science-competitions-for-kids/

Resources:

https://teachyourkidscode.com/coding-for-kids/ - Coding for Kids, Article that will help teachers and parents to resources for students.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9R7I19BzBVE – Tech Education Myths – Dispelling Coding Myths

https://techbootcamps.utexas.edu/blog/why-kids-should-learn-to-code/ - 7 Reasons Why Kids Should Learn to Code

https://junilearning.com/blog/guide/why-every-kid-should-learn-to-code/ - Top 8 Reasons Why Every Kid Should Learn to Code

https://www.create-learn.us/blog/computer-programming-for-kids/ - Getting started guide.

https://www.coderkids.com/blog/top-10-free-coding-programs-for-kids - Top 10 Free Coding Programs for Kids.

Richard Kurtz

Richard Kurtz is an award-winning science educator, teaching in New York for almost 40 years. Richard has had extensive experience working with teachers and students in developing hands-on science activities in biology, science research and inventing both in person and virtually. He is currently a semi-retired educational consultant who is passionate about helping teachers and parents learn and apply strategies to help their students unlock their potential as innovators.

https://www.k12stemspace.com
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