Should Teachers Learn to Code?
While implementing coding as a prerequisite to teaching may not be plausible, what could be the benefits of teachers being able to code be?
1) Delivering Computing Lessons
In 2014, the National Curriculum in the UK saw a shift from ‘ICT’ lessons to those of ‘Computing’. With this, children from the age of 5 would start their journey in learning how to code, and by the end of Key Stage 3 (ages 11–14), they should be able to use 2 or more programming languages. While in secondary schools there are computer science teachers, primary school teachers often have to teach these lessons, without a complete understanding of the subject as a whole, and/or in coding. When teaching other subject areas, such as Maths and Reading, a teacher’s more holistic understanding and real-world application of the skills and techniques learned is important in aspects of planning and then engaging students. Teachers also have to have GCSE-equivalent qualification in Maths and English to be able to enrol on a teacher training program. Could a prerequisite in computing be just as important?
2) Students’ Future Careers
According to an article in Totaljobs, with input from 550 technology professionals from across the UK, just 10% believed that the UK technology industry — including Cyber Security, BI & Data Management and Software Development — is prepared to compete globally, with many indicating various skills shortages. As mentioned above, students between 11–14 years are expected to be able to use 2 or more programming languages, but if the foundations for those languages are meant to be set in primary, and many primary teachers do not understand the subject themselves, is this just perpetuating the IT skills shortage in the UK? This also goes beyond primary school, with computer science in Key Stages 3 and 4 being one of the hardest subjects to recruit teachers for; in 2016 only two thirds of positions were filled.
https://www.totaljobs.com/recruiter-advice/skills-shortages-in-the-uk-technology-industry
3) Personal Benefits
Teachers, while being educators, never stop learning. Whether this be in the classroom or in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) sessions. Learning to code is no different. In fact, being able to code arguably helps you ‘think different’ when it comes to approaching problems and in learning new material. This is a result of practicing skills such as asking for help, persistency and reflecting on your work; all useful skills for teachers. Moreover, being able to code can be useful in teaching other areas of the curriculum or for personal use. Projects that beginner coders can try out include programming: a random number generator, a calculator, a weight conversion tool, a survey form, a personal portfolio page, a website, the list goes on…Whether this be to promote a side hobby, to experiment and learn a new skill, or simply just to ‘think different’, there are many personal benefits to learning how to code.
https://careerfoundry.com/en/blog/web-development/7-benefits-of-learning-to-code/
Perhaps you are not a teacher, but a curious parent or just someone who is interested in learning the basics of coding? The website below lists different websites and programs that centre around learning how to code:
