This week, students across the county are taking part in the Hour of Code, a worldwide initiative to introduce students to computer science and computer programming. The initiative, sponsored by Code.org, helps demystify “coding,” shows that anyone can learn the basics, and encourages young people to consider how computer science could fit into their future.
On the Hour of Code website, dozens of hour-long activities are available for every grade level and ability and feature kid-friendly activities like building a Star Wars galaxy, using code to develop apps or write music, exploring Minecraft, and designing your own chatbot.
It takes more than 60 minutes to become an expert, but the Hour of Code will show students that computer science is fun and creative, and may spark an interest to learn more.
Students who want to go beyond an Hour of Code can learn more with these tutorials:
Get Creative with Coding—Use block-based coding with Scratch to create interactive games, stories, and animations.
Learn Computer Coding—Learn the basics of JavaScript programming with this free course from Khan Academy.
Intro to Codesters—Learn core coding skills while creating an interactive program.