Coding is not just about learning a programming language and how to write lines of code. There are so many benefits of coding that support the development of a well-rounded student.
Here are 10 benefits of coding that have nothing to do with coding:
1. Creativity
Coding uses so much creativity. When we code we can build our own computer games, animation movies or interactive digital artwork. This involves creating our own designs, including graphics, animations, storytelling, and building our own imaginary worlds and characters.
2. Problem solving
We get involved with problem solving by creating solutions to community problems. We learn about and practice problem decomposition, i.e. breaking down a big, complex problem into a series of small, achievable steps.
3. Teamwork
Students get the opportunity of building projects together. They experience project management, communicating in a team, compromise, discussion, and negotiating with others.
4. Presentation skills
At the end of term we have our pitch day. Student give presentations on their favourite project that they built that term.
“[Student presentations] definitely promoted self confidence in my son, the times he did presentations in front of group. He volunteered to present a second time. It’s giving him insight into making computer games which he loves, and also developed confidence. I saw him presenting in front of class, I thought he could be the next Steve Jobs.” – Robert, dad
5. Learning to learn
We don’t always give the students the right answer to a question. We encourage use of trial and error to find a way to solve the problem in front of us. Experimentation allows us to remember the answer better. It also allows us to be OK with not knowing the answer and to have a go at searching and having an educated guess. We learn that there is no single answer and often there are many possible answers. We may even find a correct answer that is different to the teacher’s answer.
6. Empathy
When we design a product for others to use we learn about user experience. We learn about the psychology of people using our product, their experience and how to make their experience as easy and pleasant as we can. This requires us to have empathy for others.
We had a group of three female students who were concerned about people in the community who are lonely. So they decided to build “TED”, a Talking Entertainment Droid. TED is a robot that is designed to be a companion for people who are lonely. TED sings songs, tells jokes and stories and asks you how you are.
7. Resilience
Creativity, problem solving, learning and building things is not easy. Students often need to spend time and effort to puzzle out problem. However, in the end, when they solve the problem, they get to feel a sense of achievement, the greater the problem the greater the joy. These are really valuable benefits of coding that have nothing to do with coding.
8. Authentic learning
We are actually building a product. We are not just reading and researching about it. At the end of the day, students get to build something that they can share with family and friends.
9. Like-minded friends
Not all children are into sports, music and other mainstream interests. You can make friends with like-minded people, other children who enjoy being creative, building technology, solving problems and being innovative.
10. Confidence-boosting hobby
It is not easy being a child who does not quite fit into traditional schooling. Coding offers something different. It’s a creative and analytical hobby that provides a very different experience for children. It’s great to find a hobby to connect with and truly love and enjoy.
As you can see, coding offers more than just writing lines of code. There are many benefits of coding that have nothing to do with coding. Let us know if you have experienced other benefits. We would love to share.
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This article is original from Coding Kids: https://www.codingkids.com.au/benefits-of-coding/10-benefits-of-coding-that-have-nothing-to-do-with-coding/
