Computer programming is a growing field in this current century. With technology progressing the way it has jobs in the computer programming field are becoming a real demand. With this being said, computer programming should be taught in schools. Specifically speaking, in math class.
There is so much mathematics within computer programming and coding. I say this because of the problem solving and critical thinking that it brings to the table. It involves understanding of the coordinate plane, an understanding of angles, sequencing, exploring shapes, giving directions, etc. It also addresses a few Standards for Mathematical Practice, such as "make sense of problems and persevere in solving them". This is well represented by understanding how different codes will work in the program as well as not giving up even when it gets tough. Another standard includes "model with mathematics", and this is represented within computer programming by showing what mathematics can create in a program and knowing how/when to use certain codes. Lastly, "using appropriate tools strategically". This is represented within programming by using it as a tool to display understanding of the coordinate plane through movements and creating a program that actually succeeds in working.
Another up side to computer programming other than the mathematics involved is the way it hooks students. Computer programming is similar to a video game. Knowing from experience, having tried in class, I know that coding can be a fun activity that engages students to explore on their own.
One question that is posed in regards to bringing computer programming into curriculum is whether or not we have time for it within the classroom. I believe that as teachers we have the power to do so much when we can tie topics together. And in this case, computer programming can bring in a lot of integration of topics by creating games that are related to what things needed to be covered according to the curriculum.
An idea that my group and I in class spoke about was having multiple classrooms involved in using the computer programming to aid in their teaching. Specifically, we referred to maybe a computer class. By communicating with a fellow teacher about a similar technique and how it can be useful in their class there would be a great connection giving students a chance to get more comfortable with the program.
The amount of variety computer programming can bring into the classroom is something to take into consideration. The benefits of many mathematical ideas, the fact that it hooks students and keeps their attention by being interactive and engaging, and that it can be worked into curriculum without being a burden are all great reasons as to why you should vote yes to computer programming in the classroom.
There is so much mathematics within computer programming and coding. I say this because of the problem solving and critical thinking that it brings to the table. It involves understanding of the coordinate plane, an understanding of angles, sequencing, exploring shapes, giving directions, etc. It also addresses a few Standards for Mathematical Practice, such as "make sense of problems and persevere in solving them". This is well represented by understanding how different codes will work in the program as well as not giving up even when it gets tough. Another standard includes "model with mathematics", and this is represented within computer programming by showing what mathematics can create in a program and knowing how/when to use certain codes. Lastly, "using appropriate tools strategically". This is represented within programming by using it as a tool to display understanding of the coordinate plane through movements and creating a program that actually succeeds in working.
Another up side to computer programming other than the mathematics involved is the way it hooks students. Computer programming is similar to a video game. Knowing from experience, having tried in class, I know that coding can be a fun activity that engages students to explore on their own.
One question that is posed in regards to bringing computer programming into curriculum is whether or not we have time for it within the classroom. I believe that as teachers we have the power to do so much when we can tie topics together. And in this case, computer programming can bring in a lot of integration of topics by creating games that are related to what things needed to be covered according to the curriculum.
An idea that my group and I in class spoke about was having multiple classrooms involved in using the computer programming to aid in their teaching. Specifically, we referred to maybe a computer class. By communicating with a fellow teacher about a similar technique and how it can be useful in their class there would be a great connection giving students a chance to get more comfortable with the program.
The amount of variety computer programming can bring into the classroom is something to take into consideration. The benefits of many mathematical ideas, the fact that it hooks students and keeps their attention by being interactive and engaging, and that it can be worked into curriculum without being a burden are all great reasons as to why you should vote yes to computer programming in the classroom.