Coding Grid: An Innovative Approach to Coding Education

Marcin Paś
5 min readMay 17, 2023

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Introduction

In our digital age, coding has become an essential skill. It powers the technology we use daily and is a core competency for many lucrative careers in IT. Yet, for many, the world of programming can seem intimidating, particularly for non-native English speakers, seniors, or children. Enter Coding Grid, a groundbreaking app designed to make coding education accessible and engaging for everyone, regardless of their language or background.

A Modern Approach to Learning Coding

At the heart of Coding Grid is a unique learning philosophy. Coding, as a subject, can be complex, but that doesn’t mean it has to be taught in a complicated way. The app combines a simple, user-friendly interface with a unique and pragmatic approach to learning. The focus is on the fundamentals of programming, combined with practical examples and exercises to help learners apply these concepts to solve problems.

The Power of VisualL Language

VisualL, the programming language introduced in Coding Grid, has been designed with a primary focus on effective coding education. This unique language seamlessly blends the simplicity of block-based visual languages like Scratch with the complexity of traditional text-based languages such as Java, JavaScript, Dart, Kotlin, and C, making it an exceptional learning tool for both beginners and experienced coders alike.

The Coding Grid IDE

The Integrated Development Environment (IDE) of Coding Grid, simplified for optimal learning, is where the magic happens. It includes a code editor that allows users to drag and drop statements and edit expressions, making the coding process an effortless, almost game-like experience.

The centerpiece of the IDE is the coding grid, a rectangle containing cells. Each cell, located in a specific row and column, can have its color changed by the user’s program. A frame, referred to as the ‘cursor’, highlights the active cell, which can be moved in any direction. This grid acts as the main input/output for the user’s programs, providing a tangible, visual representation of the code’s behavior.

Coding in Your Native Language

One of Coding Grid’s most significant innovations is its support for multilingual programming. With Coding Grid, users can enjoy the flexibility of coding in a syntax rooted in their native language, rather than solely in English. At present, we offer support for Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Spanish, Polish, German, French, Italian, Hindi, Portuguese, Japanese, or Dutch. We’re persistently striving to broaden our linguistic support, aiming to make the art of coding globally accessible and inclusive.

This feature removes the language barrier that often hinders non-native English speakers from learning to code, making programming education more inclusive.

Available on Multiple Platforms

Coding Grid is available across multiple platforms. Whether you’re a fan of macOS, iOS, Windows, or Android, you can easily download Coding Grid from the respective App Store and start your programming journey. Please be aware that the availability of the app may be limited, as it is not yet released in all global markets.

Although the app is perfectly functional on the compact screens of smartphones, the larger displays of tablets and computers offer an enhanced user experience.

Upgrading to Pro

The free version of Coding Grid serves as an entry point, offering several foundational courses and examples that give you a taste of what the platform has to offer. However, upgrading to the Pro version not only unlocks all courses, examples, exercises, and practices, but also grants you the ability to write your own programs. This opens up a whole new world of creative potential, allowing you to apply what you’ve learned in a practical and personalized way. This comprehensive learning path is designed to gradually build and reinforce the user’s programming knowledge and skills.

Data Privacy

In an era where data privacy is a significant concern, Coding Grid takes a stand. All user programs, grids and learning progress are stored locally on the device, ensuring privacy and control over personal data. There’s no need to create an account or share personal information.

Learn with Coding Grid on YouTube

For more in-depth insights and tutorials, don’t forget to visit our YouTube channel, LearnCodingGrid. We regularly post video content here to further support your learning journey.

More

If you’re curious to learn more about Coding Grid, visit our website at learncodinggrid.com. Here, you’ll find a wealth of information about our app, its features, and the innovative approach we’ve taken to make coding accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Conclusion

Coding Grid is an investment in education that can pave the way to a rewarding career in IT. Its unique approach bridges the gap between block-based and text-based programming languages, providing a seamless transition into more complex coding tasks. Given its multilingual support, innovative VisualL language, user-friendly IDE, and focus on data privacy, it’s clear that Coding Grid represents a modern approach to coding education.

Coding Grid is a welcoming platform for all age groups, from curious kids to later-life learners, providing everyone the opportunity to explore the exciting realm of programming. Give it a try, and unlock the power of coding in your native language today!

We welcome your thoughts and feedback on our approach! Your insights are invaluable to us, and we are more than eager to enrich Coding Grid with new features or additional language support based on your suggestions.

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Marcin Paś

Founder of Similesoft, Co-Founder of Softelnet, Software Engineer