The ability to code is one of the most useful skills a child can have. With the rate at which digital transformation is accelerating, it is critical for children to know what it takes to code in today’s high-tech internet age. Hillbrow Library recently went to great lengths to stimulate children with new and engaging ways to interact with current coding concepts.
The eager beavers were made to understand that computational thinking will be as important as literacy and numeracy for the jobs they will have in the near future.
According to Thembi Marwa, a Librarian at Hillbrow Library, coding teaches children concepts like abstraction and recursion in a practical approach while also encouraging creativity, resilience and determination to complete tasks.
“It gives them the chance to design and build something that may evolve into a fully-fledged project for them, giving them a tremendous boost in self-confidence,” she added.
Learning to code is a useful ability that will only grow in importance in an increasingly interconnected society that relies on computing.
“It also helps students build problem-solving and critical thinking abilities that are helpful and necessary in this day and age,” Marwa said.
About 33 pupils from several nearby primary schools gathered to learn fundamental coding skills using the Tanks Coding app, which is available on cellphones and does not require internet access to use. The app seeks to expose pupils to coding through the use of tangible tokens and image recognition without the need of computers.
The pupils were overjoyed when they were introduced to coding using puzzles and a smartphone.
They had to solve problems to generate a code that would allow the tank to reach its destination.
It grew increasingly fascinating and challenging as they progressed from level 1 to level 34.
Asked about the programme, Radinku Lekoloane, a Librarian, said the City’s e-learning services first introduced it in 2019 with the objective of trying to introduce children to basic coding skills at an early age so that they can develop an interest in IT careers such as programing and software engineering.
“We all know technology is in every aspect of our lives, so it’s important for us to start embracing it, especially in communities that are less fortunate,” he said.
“The kids enjoyed the session as they got to learn to solve problems and work as a team. Their faces were illuminated with delight whenever they solved a problem and advanced to the next level. It was highly interesting and interactive and worth recommending,” he continued.
Written by Ntombifuthi Junerose Nkosi
08/11/2022