Coding the Future – Fostering Communication And Creative Skills in Children
It’s obvious that the future of the workforce will be greatly dependent upon technology, as more roles in IT jobs, digital networks, and the tech industries grow everyday. This blog post is my response to an article by Lynda Colgan, “Why a Computer Isn’t the First Thing You Need When Teaching Kids to Code”. (link embedded). This article argues that the most important concept that children need to learn is effective communication skills – learning to make sense of systems of processes and finding clear solutions through dialogue, discussion and debate. These thinking skills will then translate into efficient computational skills when the children are old enough. There are computer programs for young children that teach them the basics of technology, specifically how to follow sequences of instructions. The article mentions a program called “LOGO”, that teaches kids the basics of computer coding through solving math problems, drawing, and games. The children can even create their own games. This program is useful because it doesn’t just teach children to learn to code, it also provides them with problem-solving and logical thinking skills that will serve them in any discipline.
Creativity is essential in fostering communication and creative skills in children because it not only allows them to take control of their own learning experience, it also makes the experience fun for them. Young children are never going to want to participate in an activity that doesn’t seem interesting or fun for them, so through introducing coding and any sort of technological-creating experience to them as a game or through fun means, they will be more apt to take part. Games are inherently based in the system of problem-solving, which is the most important skill necessary when it comes to programming and coding. When the building blocks of creativity and a love for thinking outside the box are formed, the lifelong skills of logical thinking and collaboration through communication are ingrained into children’s minds, and they can be successful in any realm they choose.
Sophia Maynard 