Learning “how to code” is the buzz phrase we might say for computational
thinking. We are not trying to create a new generation of 100 percent computer
programmers but understanding the basics of coding, computational thinking
and general tech literacy is essential to becoming an active part of our
communities and the future workforce.
Now, let’s look at the top three reasons, in my mind, why learning how to code is
essential for a brighter tomorrow:
• Why coding is crucial for the future of businesses
• Computational Thinking = creative problem solving
• Resilience = determination that no challenge will be unanswered
• Diversity and Equality = better technology and therefore a better world
The future generation will hold jobs we can’t even dream up yet - How will those
jobs come about? Who will create them? What will happen to the old jobs?
Where will those jobs be? Not to worry, these “new” jobs are just an evolution of
the way we work and the things we do now. Remember Starbucks before it had
automatically printed drink tickets? We would just write the drink order on the
cup with a big black sharpie. These little advancements bit by bit transform the
role of the barista - and these little tech advancements can be seen in every
industry if we just take the time to keep an eye out for them.
You might be thinking, why would a barista need to know how to code - well the
simple answer might be - they don’t! But if you dig a little deeper and think a few
years (or a couple of months) down the road. What happens when the ticket
machines stop working or the automatic coffee grinder screen doesn’t reload and
needs to be slightly reprogrammed in order to create the precise measure for the
espresso shot? Understanding how technology works is NOW an essential part
of the role. And understanding the fundamentals of coding is the best place to
start.
Early life experiences often shape our future interests which is why it is the
responsibility of early years educatorsto broaden the horizons of young children,
and to change the stigma around girls in technology through the use of fun,
engaging learning tools.