Computer programming has come a long way from the 1980s basic DOS commands that let users draw figures with Xs and Os, which I marveled at in my childhood. Today there are a multitude of computer programs that teach coding with outstanding graphics, layered tutorials and assessments. There is no longer a pressure to teach students to become computer programmers, rather there is a shift to viewing coding as a life-skill for problem solving and computational thinking (Snelling, 2018). Compared to the need for literacy proficiency, computer coding offers a similar structure to writing and reading a story and offers users the opportunity to practice and hone their critical thinking skills (Moen, 2016). Where better than the library to offer a safe space to delve into the world of computer coding.
I decided to dip my toe into the coding pool with a beginner’s instructional coding website called Monster Coding. Our mission was to code the monster to explore the island and collect the hidden treasure, a fun and alluring task. My rising 1st grade and 2nd grade sons joined me as we attempted to navigate the game. The first lesson was to change the color, shape, eyes, and mouth of our monster. We could navigate the changes, but couldn’t figure out how to save them, or in coding vocabulary “run” the changes. Step 1: Fail. We worked through the basic lessons on “boolean” which equates to true or false questions and were successful with “looping” several functions many times. The “If, Else Do” values had us stumped. The “?” hint button only repeated the same information and did not give further guidance. The six-year-old’s frustration led him to quit. The seven-year-old said there has to be a solution and then wise enough to admit our defeat. Luckily, I could skip that lesson and carry on to the end of the mission which ultimately felt a little like cheating as we really weren’t successful in all the steps.
I think for a first taste of coding, it was successful. We walked away with a few genuine coding terms. We definitely stretched our brains to try and problem-solve and consider many different possible solutions, albeit not always the correct ones. I do think this site would be challenging to a pre-reader as there was audio to mission questions, but not to the command buttons. If anything, it encouraged me to try out a different “Hour of Code” website to see if other platforms offer more support to beginning learners. Overall, I see the shift from the ‘80s computer programming classes have transformed into a much higher level of thinking.
Resources:
Moen, Mary. (September 30, 2016). Computer coding and literacy: librarians lead the connection. International Literacy Association. Retrieved from: Computer Coding and Literacy: Librarians Lead the Connection (literacyworldwide.org)
Monster Coding. (2021). Retrieved from: Monster Coding – Fun Programming for Kids
Snelling, Jennifer. (April 3, 2018). Don’t stress about coding: focus shifts to teaching problem solving not computer skills. School Library Journal. Retrieved from: https://www.slj.com/?detailStory=dont-stress-coding-focus-shifts-teaching-problem-solving-not-computer-skills
I’m laughing out loud at your 7-year-old’s response. From the mouths of babes…
I wonder whether the “If, else do” bit will prove to be one of those problems that you don’t really realize that you’ve quietly kept percolating in the back of your mind over the next few days–until suddenly the lightbulb pops on and it all comes together? I’d kind of be willing to bet. 😉
If you’re looking for another introductory coding option, I highly recommend Scratch Junior. It has a very visual, drag-and-drop set-up that even I can understand and elementary-aged kids LOVE.
I will have to try out Monster Coding with my kids! I’m guessing that they will be better at it then I am. I love that our students & children are gaining those higher leveling thinking skills, but they think they are just playing a game.
There were so many coding options. I have gone back in since my initial attempt to try a few more.
I like the premise and design behind Monster Coding! It was smart to test it out with your kids, I think that’s really the best way to find out if it’s a good resource. I need to look into a way to find a test audience! Part of my problem this semester was that I didn’t take into consideration how assignments and designs I made would look from a student/patron point of view.
Even if it wasn’t completely successful, I think you’re right in saying it’s a good first attempt, coding is like learning a language; you can’t become fluent in an hour-long session!
I love that you referenced DOS! I learned to write programs in BASIC on Radio Shack computers when I was in 5th and 6th grade. Back then, the school had 2 computers and only kids in the gifted program got to use them once every two weeks because there were so many of us. I’m so glad that technology and problem solving are so commonplace these days!