KATHLEEN MURRAY

Besides Code.Org this is one of my favorite free coding programs. Made with Code had engaging coding projects for tweens and teens. Depending on the season or what is happening, the coding projects will change. Google has done a terrific job with this coding program. A wonderful thing about this program is that Google is reaching out to professional women to get them involved in Made with Code. Chelsea Clinton hosted a workshop on this program. One of the cons of the program may be their projects are very short and do not have a lot of levels. Also, this program is designed for girls, therefore boys typically would not enjoy utilizing this program.

This coding program is designed for ages 14 and up. This is a fun and engaging game in which players are able to utilize swords and sorcery. The students must utilize programming languages in order to be successful. Players are required to use JavaScript, and Python in order to command their warriors. The players move around engaging in battle after battle. The only drawback to this type of coding game is that players may tend to get frustrated if they are not well versed in programming languages. Even though the game has complete tutorials inexperienced players may find that the game is too advanced and may want to try a different coding program.

Although I have not used this product, I plan to incorporate it at the beginning of the 2018-2019 school year. Utilizing this program the students will learn the coding concepts and I will learn how to teaching coding. Each video lesson is well designed and provides the student and the instructor with coding exercises that will expose the students to the fundamentals of computer science. The only drawback of Code HS is the cost. The program cost $2000 per classroom to license. Many districts are not willing to spend that kind of money on one program. Currently, over 50,000 students are utilizing Code HS to learn the fundamentals of coding.

Anytime my students have free time, I tell them to log into Code.org and start coding. This is a wonderful coding program because the students are able to select from a variety of activities. In addition, the students are able to work at their own pace. The only drawback to Code.Org may be that without supervision, the students may select activities at random instead of following the scaffolded curriculum designed by the company. I encourage other teachers at my school to have the students utilize this program. In my book, it is one of the best coding programs on the market and best of all it is free. What more could you ask for?

I use this tool to help my middle school students practice coding. Students are able to practice their coding with a real coding programming language. While utilizing this tool, my students are able to work at their own pace. I do not have to worry about the students being exposed to offensive language. In addition, my students are learning great coding concepts.