What is coding?

Coding is the art of telling a computer how to perform complex tasks.

Once you know how to code, you can create virtual worlds within the computer where the only limit on what is possible is your imagination.

Software is becoming a critical layer of all our lives. It is the language of our world. In the future, not knowing the language of computers will be as challenging as being illiterate or innumerate are today.

“Our world is increasingly run by software and we need more diversity in the people who are building it. More importantly, writing software is about expression, creativity – and practical application”.

Linda Liukas, co-founder of coding workshop programme ‘Rail Girls‘.

Why should children learn to code?

Learning to code makes kids feel empowered, creative, and confident. It’s an important skill now we’re living in a digital age. It’s not just enough for children to know how to use technology.

They should know how it works and how to build it too. Learning to code doesn’t just mean you can become a developer – it strengthens problem solving and logical thinking skills, and is useful for a range of other disciplines, careers and hobbies.

For further reading on the subject:

John Naughton at The Guardian.
Douglas Rushkoff – Teach Kids Code.
Ian Livingstone and Alex Hope – Next Gen Report.