Children
have a natural fascination for computers. Just observe them lapping up every
opportunity to play with PCs, and gadgets like video-game consoles and cell
phones. But, their interaction with computers is limited to browsing the
Internet, networking with friends, playing games, or using ready-made (and
sometimes dull!) software like word processors.
What the
children would enjoy a lot more is learning how to communicate with the
computer to draw graphics, design their own animation, solve mathematical or
word puzzles, and build robots. Such intimacy with the computer would not only
unleash the children's intellectual capacity and creativity, but also help
create interest in subjects like Math and Physics.
How children benefit
Children
who learn programming develop understanding of the real power of the computer
and its capabilities, and learn how to harness this new power for fun as well
as meaningful activities.
Programming
environments like Scratch,
Logo, or Alice
have been specially designed for children. These environments are simple and
entertaining, and yet very powerful. They allow the learner to build his/her
vocabulary without getting mired in the complexities of syntax and grammar. Learning
to program shouldn't be the ultimate goal; the goal should be to learn
geometry, or logic, or grammar. Programming helps in the learning, and it helps
make the learning endure for the student.
Computer as a powerful assistant:
Through computer programming,
students discover that the computer is a powerful and flexible tool that
they can use in their own favorite subject.
Through the interesting ideas
embedded in the programming environments and the specially designed
programming problems, students experience increased interest and ability
in "difficult" subject likes Math and Physics.
Learning through programming:
In a programming environment,
children become active learners (they learn through their own activity and
creativity).
They learn that answers are
not just "right" or "wrong"; real life solutions
usually require gradual improvement through "debugging".
They learn to deal with
complex problems by starting with smaller sub-problems.
They learn to think about and
analyze their own thinking, because that is the only way to program
computers.
They learn a new way of
thinking (called "procedural" thinking) and problem solving.
They experience an
intellectually rewarding activity (which is what programming is).
Their overall learning process
transforms from acquiring facts to creative thinking.
Other References:
Look up
the following sites to know more about "programming and education".