I noticed that there was not much out there for younger students specifically students aged 5-12. I was curious about this. From what I read it appeared that the 'optimal' time for introducing coding was in 6th grade. I was strongly opposed to this and started researching some more...
I think learning the fundamentals of computer science is similar to learning a new language. In
Fitzalan Gorman's article titled: The Advantages of Foreign Languages in Elementary Schools it states that "starting foreign language learning in elementary school increases a student’s level of language proficiency compared to waiting until middle or high school, according to a report from the Center for Applied Second Language Studies in 2010. Students who began learning a foreign language in elementary school reached a slightly higher level of proficiency in reading, writing and speaking compared to those who started in middle school. Compared to students who wait until high school to learn a foreign language, elementary school starters are 70 percent more likely to reach an intermediate level of communication."
Click here for more research.
Having searched some more it appears that starting to learn the fundamentals of computer science at a younger age is catching on.
Enter Young Women Who Code.
I think learning the fundamentals of computer science is similar to learning a new language. In
Fitzalan Gorman's article titled: The Advantages of Foreign Languages in Elementary Schools it states that "starting foreign language learning in elementary school increases a student’s level of language proficiency compared to waiting until middle or high school, according to a report from the Center for Applied Second Language Studies in 2010. Students who began learning a foreign language in elementary school reached a slightly higher level of proficiency in reading, writing and speaking compared to those who started in middle school. Compared to students who wait until high school to learn a foreign language, elementary school starters are 70 percent more likely to reach an intermediate level of communication."
Click here for more research.
Having searched some more it appears that starting to learn the fundamentals of computer science at a younger age is catching on.
Enter Young Women Who Code.