Thoughts on Coding

I have used Code.org with students before. They have unplugged activities where students do not need an electronic device to complete.

Good morning,

I have taught coding in elementry school for a few years. I use Swift playgrounds primarily. I teach 3rd to 5th grade. Some of the kids take to it like a fish to water, but others have struggles like any subject. They love being able to see their work on the screen though.

Before coming to Apple I taught coding in elementary school for many years. The younger the students the more they were interested when there was a physical output, like a robot that moved when you ran the code. My 4th and 5th graders loved BeetleBlocks and we had a 3D printer to make their creations come to life.

There are so many compelling projects and resources out there to teach coding now, and I found it really fun to learn alongside my students. Exploring a new toy/robot/motorized thing together, or trying to debug why a loop wasn't stopping.

I don't remember anything being particularly frustrating... maybe not having good WiFi, but that wasn't a reflection on the content or topic.

Happy to answer any more specific questions you have.

I have taught coding from about 6 years up to adults. I think for the younger students it is important to do a lot of unplugged coding activities. These may be doing directions, making sandwiches etc.

1. Success wise we have had a lot of success with the Everyone Can Code Projects as well as developing apps. We have also had success with accessories such as Sphero.
2. Frustrations wise. Finding enough time!