Hour of Code

The Hour of Code started as a one-hour introduction to computer science, designed to demystify “code”, to show that anybody can learn the basics, and to broaden participation in the field of computer science. It has since become a worldwide effort to celebrate computer science, starting with 1-hour coding activities but expanding to all sorts of community efforts. As a school, The Summit jumped on board this year, with every student spending at least an hour experimenting with coding during the week.

Coding is the primary method for communicating with a computer. It is using a language to give a computer instructions in order to perform specific functions. Coding makes it possible for us to create things such as computer software, websites, apps etc.  While many people see coding as a highly technical skill, it is, in fact, another form of literacy, like a new language, but for computers. Living in the 21st-century, children are growing up in a digital era, and coding is a skill that can be used every day.

Understanding computers and learning the basics of coding helps children to develop an appreciation of how things work. It also teaches them how to use math in order to solve problems in a logical and creative way. Coding promotes logical thinking and creativity.  When students learn to code, they develop persistence. They discover that, in order to solve the problem they have, they must keep going, coming up with different solutions until they have the right one. Coding gives students a great sense of satisfaction.  When children learn to code and see the results of their work,  they  become determined to accomplish even more. There is nothing better than seeing a child proud of a particular challenge or project they have completed.  All these are important reasons  coding should be taught to students of all ages.

The ability to solve problems is a trait that is useful in life in general. We all want our children to become excellent problem solvers so that they can overcome any adversity they face. Learning to code gives children the chance to learn this type of skill while they are young and it can help them along the way in life.  According to Steve Jobs, “Everybody in this country should learn to program a computer, because it teaches you how to think.”

Be sure to look at the bottom of our “Links” page and click on “Hour of Code” to check out what we have been doing!  Have your kiddo share with you the coding activity they have enjoyed working on so far this week!

The Summit Preparatory School is a fully accredited, non-religious, private school offering a full-time seated independent education for students in Springfield, Ozark, Nixa, Rogersville, and the greater Southwest Missouri area. Our preparatory school setting offers an enriching early childhood, elementary, middle school, and high school curriculum in a supportive environment. We have state of the art facilities, highly-qualified teachers and staff, and a large range of educational programming. Interested in enrolling your child? Learn more about our admissions process.

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