Code.org: Free coding lessons for all

Code.org is a free resource in which students can be introduced to coding and even learn how to code, which helps build valuable skills in this digital age. Code.org is a non-profit group dedicated to bringing computer science, a high paying career, to young women and students from unrepresented groups, whom are seldom in the industry. . Code.org has plenty of resources for students to learn how to code. They offer classes for not only K-12, but even beyond. In the digital age, having a basic understanding of computer science can help students build valuable skills that will help them in the future. Code.org has a crisp and clean interface, making it easy for students to use, as well as educators to teach.. Students can access free courses throughout the website. Elementary students can directly access materials while older students can participate in an "Express Course", which goes over some more advanced materials. Students then just progress through the courses, which have them drag lines of code to create a number of things., There are tons of engaging activities that help students stay focused, with topics, such as Minecraft or Angry Birds, that students are interested in. They can work at their own pace at various different levels., Students can get sidetracked or stuck without proper guidance. There is usually training that helps teachers teach the curriculum, but students learning at home may not have access to this., Parents who are unfamiliar with coding can work along side their children, with resources provided for all ages. Children will love that they are learning something alongside their parents.. 

Grades: Kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th

Cost: Code.org is a non-profit. They are sponsored by big technology corporations such as Microsoft, Facebook, Google, etc, which allows them to provide resources completely free for students. The best part is that they even provide resources for coding beyond K-12, so even parents can learn coding along with their child!

OTHER DETAILS

Key features

Type of Tool: App, Website

Time required: Students can spend 30 minutes to an hour completing lessons. Older students can try to finish one project every day, while younger students can spend a few days working on a project.

Special Needs:

Literacy Requirement (does a child need to know how to read): Yes

Screens

Screens:  Yes, an electronic device is required

Online requirement: Yes, You must be connected to the internet to use it.

Time

Parent/Caregiver Involvement: Kids can use it with no help from a parent, teacher or caregiver

Prep Time:  n/a

Other characteristics

Modality: Visual, Audiovisual

Adaptive: No, it is the same for every student

Educational Philosophy: Montessori

Other characteristics:   Hands-on, Project-based, STEAM, STEM, Fun and entertaining

Accountability

Assessment: Yes, there are built in assessment tools

State Standards: There are no current state standards for coding.

Teacher Accounts: No

Read Reviews: https://www.facebook.com/Code.org/reviews/