It comes as no surprise that computer coding is a viable life skill. Computer programs, video games, and virtually everything else runs off the stuff, and knowing how to write said instructions can turn into a lucrative career. The problem, however, is that there just aren’t enough coders to keep up with the booming rate of technology. At least that’s what the development companies are telling us. While there’s a huge demand for their products, there aren’t enough workers who can create them.
While, for the time being, software developers are working overtime, the companies have come up with a virtually fool-proof plan for the future: teaching code to kids.
Through apps, games, and other fun-related activities, kids old enough to hold a tablet are learning coding basics. By tackling this subject early on, there’s a better chance future generations will produce more coders. And, even if a majority doesn’t turn into software-writing pros, they’ll still hold the basic knowledge of binary and other computer controlling lingo.
The Lack of Learning Curve
But just how hard is it to learn these skills? For those of us with a basic understanding of HTML, it’s hard to tell if code is similar to learning-another-language hard, or reorganizing-mumbo-jumbo hard. Presumably, however, it’s several steps above the former. Not only does coding require the knowledge of computer language, one also has to know how to combine and adjust codes to achieve specific outcomes. While, when learning another language, various sayings can achieve the same meaning, the same is not true for computers.
It’s also likely true as to why there’s such a shortage of programmers in the status quo. If it were easy, everyone would do it. However, software company execs say with the release of these games, kids (or adults) are able to have fun while learning basic commands and combinations.
Some top-ranked programming games include:
- LOGO
- Fantastic Contraption
- Survivium
- Cato’s Hike (full and lite versions available)
- Move the Turtle
- A.L.E.X.
- and apps like 3D Game Programming, Learn Game Programming, or Programming Video Tutorials, which offer videos and lessons
Whether you’ve got a child at home or you’d like to try out these brain-teasing apps yourself, coding games are a great way to learn a new skill … and while having fun in the process.
Head to the iOS or Android app store to check out more programming games today.
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