Coding as Another Language

Abstract

This essay focuses on the benefits of introducing coding in early childhood and makes the case for coding being a language that compliments the emphasis on language and literacy in the early years. The essay examines topics including computer science, computer programming, coding and computational thinking. An argument is made that coding should not be folded into the disciplinary cluster of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math). An alternative, the pedagogical approach, “Coding as Another Language,” is introduced and described. Programming environments designed for early childhood education are introduced, such as the ScratchJr app and the KIBO robotic system that uses tangible blocks instead of screens, which teach coding with a literacy approach. The essay concludes with a list of principals that guide the Coding as Another Language approach.