Coding in the Lower Years

As of 2014 we have implemented a 1:1 iPad program in Years 3-7 at Vineyard. Each lower class also has their own iPad bank. This ready access to iPads has lead to some amazing SAMR Redefinition style teaching. 

A particularly exciting aspect of iPad learning has been coding. As of 2015 Coding, or Digital Literacy will be part of the UK Curriculum. Coding, or telling computers what to do, will be an extremely useful skill for students looking to enter the workforce in the late 2000’s. The skills that come with coding are useful to any generation – creativity, divergent thinking, problem solving. There are also intrinsic benefits in regards to numeracy, coordinates, multiplication and basic number facts playa big part in writing code.

We have been coding for 2 weeks now – it has thus far been a resounding success. From Foundation to Year 7 there has been 100% engagement, everyone is having fun. The learning has been worthwhile, with lots of students demonstrating outstanding development in problem solving even in such a short time.

In only 2 sessions many children have written code for simple pong style games, flappy bird and are working towards developing their own apps for sale. 

The really exciting aspect has been that some of the students who have really excelled are those who don’t necessarily find success in other areas of school – this opportunity to shine has been significant for these students. 

We have begun using Daisy the Dinosuar in Foundation, Tynker in the middle years and Hopscotch in Upper Primary – watch this space for more exciting developments!!

            Daisy the Dinosuar in Foundation                                    Tynker in Year 2

                                                       Hopscotch in Upper Primary