(Some over used stock art. Seemed to fit the theme.)
Although as a society, we’ve long asked for the day technology can overtake everyday, mundane tasks. That reality is closer to fruition than ever before, and now is the time we should take a step back to determine if that’s really what want – and consider the resulting consequences.
Everywhere we look today we are inundated with ads that beg us to learn coding. If not us, then we must ensure our children learn the sacred way of the code. But is it really necessary? Are there consequences to ensuring your kids can code and do we need to learn? The short answer is yes, we do need to learn – and it will likely be one of the most exhilarating skills you’ll ever learn.
The automated world we hope to build will require an unimaginable effort to create – and all of it will require software. From building a simple device that monitors your infant’s breathing to developing a complex inventory management robot, every single technology you can imagine will require software. And if you don’t plan on learning to code, someone has to, or the world we envision will remain just out of reach.
Not to fear. We’ve curated a few great resources to get you, and your kids, started. Whether you want to learn to code with Star Wars characters, or create a video game from scratch, you’ll find a solution that’s right for you below.
Happy Coding!
Create a Windows App with No Coding Required
Okay, okay. So yes, you should learn to code, but if you just want to learn some basics about app development before you download Visual Studios or Xamarin, you’ll be happy to discover Microsoft launched a platform that allows users to build apps without writing a single line of code.
The Windows App Studio now lets users build apps with the clicks of a few buttons. You won’t be able to create a complex, or even pretty, apps with the platform, but it is a great way to make something. A lot of the joy of building technologies really comes in the building – in investing your time and tears into creating something. No one can take that away from you. Sure, you won’t make something amazing in the new platform, but at least you’ll make something and it’ll teach you enough about app development that you’ll want to go out and make more.
Coding with Star Wars
(via Code.org & Disney)
If you’re ready for something a bit more challenging, check out Code.org’s new Star Wars game. You can create your own galaxy with Princess Leia and Rey. The female feature is no accident – the duo is intended to promote the kind of diversity that future of computer programming calls for.
The platform teaches kids (and adults) to code by dragging and dropping lines of code in the appropriate spots. This gets the user familiar with code, before they attempt to write it themselves.
If you’re already familiar with code, try to more advanced version that relies on JavaScript. You’ll be able to drag and drop more complex lines of code, but you’ll have to write your own commands in JavaScript to build and defend your galaxy.
Build Video Games
Okay, so now you have some decent coding skills. Most programmers have found the best way to truly learn is to build something you’re excited about. And who isn’t excited about video games?
Most people don’t think computer programming when they think of gaming, but in fact game developers are some of the best computer programmers in the industry. Sure, animators play an enormous part in the process, but it can’t come together without programmers building those graphics into functional games that are compatible with console hardware.
If you have a child who’s a gamer, he or she has probably mentioned wanting to create video games at one point or another. Here’s your chance to get him or her engaged in the making, not just the life-sucking playing.
Unity 5 offers a Developer Course that promises to help users master C# and Unity 3D by developing your own video game. You’ll have access to 278 lectures and 49 hours of content. Most importantly, you’ll have fun. See Stack Studio for more.
La pièce de résistance – Tie it all together with Maker Camp
There’s nothing quite like making. There’s an inexplicable joy that rises from deep within when we make anything. It’s the power of creation – and you can get your kids excited about it early with Maker Camp.
Maker Camp is an initiative to keep kids creative. The company has 1,000 educational affiliates across the US and gets kids involved in making by assigning fun projects to complete throughout the year. Most projects only require odds and ends sitting around most households, yet they can teach your kids a lot about working with others, and will give them confidence in themselves.
Maker Camp has both an in-class and online version. Check their site to see if there’s a location near you. If not, you can pick up the slack and become a class leader, too.
Past projects include a Halloween-themed ghost booby trap and a tote that lights up when it’s opened.
See more news at:
Top Comments