Update: This article was last updated on 30th September 2024 to reflect the accuracy and up-to-date information on the page.
It has been proven children can learn the alphabet, numbers, etc., more conveniently through pictures and games rather than following the traditional pen-and-paper method. Similarly, coding classes for kids using block-based coding usher children into the world of coding in a fun way compared to text-based coding.
Example of block-based coding
One popular example of block-based coding is Scratch. Scratch is a visual programming language that uses blocks to represent code concepts.
In this video, block are used to make a jumping game:
Example of Text-based coding:
import pygame
pygame.init()
screen = pygame.display.set_mode((640, 480))
while True:
for event in pygame.event.get():
if event.type == pygame.KEYDOWN:
if event.key == pygame.K_LEFT:
print(“Move character left”)
elif event.key == pygame.K_RIGHT:
print(“Move character right”)
elif event.key == pygame.K_UP:
print(“Move character up”)
elif event.key == pygame.K_DOWN:
print(“Move character down”)
In the above example, Python language is used to create a program that moves a character when a key is pressed. Text-based coding defines our program logic, such as importing the necessary libraries, setting up the screen, and defining the event loop that listens for keyboard input.
Recommended Reading: Top Programming Languages for Kids to Learn in 2023
What is Text-based Coding?
Text-based coding involves writing lines of code stored as text files, while block-based coding is based on drag and drop formula.
Before 2003, block-based coding was not so prominent, and older kids were usually taught text-based coding, which was not easy to learn. But the coding scenario changed when MIT created the first block programming language, Scratch, which focused on teaching kids about the basics of computer programming through visual representation instead of text-based programming.
Recommended Reading: Is Coding Hard? Understanding the Challenges and Overcoming Them
What is block-based coding?
When text-based computer commands are grouped in pre-programmed blocks and dragged and dropped to build computer programs such as animations and games is called block-based coding.
Block-based vs Text-based Coding
|
Block-based Coding
|
Text-based Coding
|
|---|---|
|
For beginners
|
For experienced
|
|
Drag-and-drop visual blocks
|
Write instructions using keyboard characters and a certain syntax
|
|
Easy to use
|
Complicated
|
|
Easy to follow instructions
|
Difficult for beginners to decode instructions
|
|
Fun way of introducing children to the world of coding
|
Complicated way of learning coding
|
Block coding is a simple form of computer programming and an excellent starting point for children aged 5-8 years who want to learn how to code.
Difference between block-based and text-based coding:
| Features | Block-based coding | Text-based coding |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Drag and drop visual blocks | Block-based coding involves dragging and dropping visual blocks of code to create a program. It provides a beginner-friendly approach to programming and allows kids to learn programming concepts through visual cues. It’s often used in educational settings and is popular among young children. | Text-based coding involves writing code using a programming language. It requires understanding programming concepts and syntax and can be more challenging for beginners. It’s a more flexible and powerful approach to programming, allowing for more complex and customized programs. Text-based coding is often used in industry and higher-level educational settings. |
| 2. Easy to comprehend | Block-based coding uses blocks which makes it easier for beginners to understand the simple instructions. They can easily guess the following steps, even if they are doing it for the first time. | Text-based coding creates confusion, especially for beginners, and the mind-boggling experience can easily dissuade them from learning to code. |
| 3. Ease of use | Block-based coding is about dragging and dropping the blocks with pre-written instructions. | Children find it challenging to use when the same instructions are given in text-based coding |
| 4. Ushers in the world of technology in a fun way | The way technology has invaded our lives, children need to understand it. But they are too young to bear the pressure to learn. In such a scenario, a soft launch is the best method to engage them in technology, and this is only possible with block-based coding | For text-based programming, fundamental coding knowledge is a must, as familiarization with the coding lingo such as loop, a Boolean, array, etc. For advanced learning, you have to be familiar with programming languages like C++ and headers, libraries, functions, dynamic memory management, and much more before you get in too deep. |
Benefits of block-based and text-based coding:
| Block-based Coding | Text-based Coding |
|---|---|
| Block-based coding provides a visual representation of code. | Text-based coding is akin to natural language, reducing the need for extensive memorization. |
| Helps children understand the relationship between code and outcomes. | Facilitates a deeper understanding of language and syntax. |
| Develops problem-solving skills through a hands-on approach. | Allows children to unleash creativity by creating intricate and complex programs. |
| Encourages thinking in terms of algorithms and computational logic. | Provides flexibility for diverse coding expressions. |
| Fosters skills essential for future technological understanding. | Text-based coding serves as a robust and scalable language for various tasks. |
| Allows children to explore creative solutions to problems. | Adaptable to a wide range of programming needs. |
| Promotes thinking outside the box and innovative approaches. | Equips children with the skill to identify and rectify errors efficiently. |
| Block-based coding is designed for simplicity. | Requires fewer lines of code for accomplishing tasks compared to block-based coding. |
| Enables quick comprehension of code structure and functionality. | Text-based coding presents challenges, fostering a trial-and-error approach. |
| Encourages teamwork and collaboration among children. | Learning to code instills a sense of accomplishment and pride in children. |
| Maintains interest and motivation in learning coding concepts. | Cultivates a positive and confident attitude towards tasks. |
Interactive Exercise: Create a Simple Animation
Objective: Create an animation of a character moving across the screen using both block-based and text-based coding.
Block-Based Approach (Scratch):
1. Goal: Move a character from the left side to the right side of the screen.
2. Instructions:
Open Scratch.
Select a sprite (e.g., a cat).
Use the “when green flag clicked” block to start the animation.
Add a “repeat until” block and set the condition to move the sprite until it reaches the right side of the screen.
Use the “move 10 steps” block inside the loop.
Test your animation to see the character move across the screen.
Text-Based Approach (Python):
1. Goal: Achieve the same movement using Python and the turtle library.
2. Instructions:
Open an IDE (e.g., Repl.it, IDLE).
Type the following code:
python
import turtle
screen = turtle.Screen()
character = turtle.Turtle()
character.penup()
character.goto(-200, 0) # Start from the left side
for _ in range(40):
character.forward(10)
screen.mainloop()
3. Run the code and watch the character move from left to right.
Discussion:
Block-Based Coding: Notice how easy it is to drag and drop the blocks in Scratch to make the character move, providing a visual representation of the code.
Text-Based Coding: This approach requires more detailed instructions and understanding of syntax, which helps build a deeper understanding of how programming logic works.
Impact on Future Career Paths
Block-Based Coding:
Block-based coding serves as a strong foundation for introducing children to the concepts of logic, sequencing, and computational thinking. These skills are essential not only for programming but also for other STEM fields.
Starting with block-based coding can help young children build confidence as they grasp fundamental coding principles through interactive, visual learning. This early exposure to coding prepares them for more advanced programming concepts and can spark an interest in pursuing technology-related careers.
By building simple games and animations, children learn creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration, which are valuable skills for any career in the future.
Text-Based Coding:
As children become comfortable with coding concepts through block-based coding, transitioning to text-based coding opens the doors to more complex and versatile applications.
Text-based coding is widely used in real-world programming, and proficiency in languages like Python, Java, or JavaScript can lead to career opportunities in software development, web development, data science, and artificial intelligence.
Text-based coding encourages children to understand syntax, error handling, and program structure, which are critical skills for professional developers. Mastering text-based coding is a step towards more specialized fields in technology and engineering, allowing children to work on sophisticated projects, contribute to open-source platforms, and even create their own applications.
In the larger context of STEM education, both block-based and text-based coding play crucial roles in preparing children for the workforce of tomorrow. Block-based coding lays the groundwork for computational thinking, while text-based coding enables them to build on that foundation and create complex, innovative solutions. Together, these skills empower children to excel in the technology-driven world and become the innovators of the future.
Conclusion
The choice between block-based and text-based coding for kids depends on factors such as age, experience, learning style, and goals. Block-based coding can be an excellent starting point for developing young children’s problem-solving and logical thinking skills. Text-based coding can help older kids better understand programming concepts and prepare them for more advanced programming languages.
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You have missed Thunkable and Tynker. They are best to make animations, games, and simulations.
Imagine you’re building a robot. Would you prefer a block-based interface to program its actions or dive straight into typing out the code?
If I were building a robot, I’d opt for a block-based interface initially. It provides a visual, hands-on approach, which is perfect for experimenting and understanding basic functions. As I gain confidence, transitioning to typing out the code would offer more precision and control.
Micro: bit provides a more seamless entry point for young learners due to its block-based programming interface. It employs a visual coding language, making it intuitive and less intimidating. This simplifies the learning curve, allowing kids to focus on creativity and problem-solving rather than complex syntax.