Introduction

Learning how to write computer code can be a daunting task for a beginner. However, with the right motivation, practice, and guidance anyone can learn the basics of coding and become a successful programmer. 

My first introduction to computer programming (coding) was using a program called BASIC. As it's name suggests, BASIC was an introductory computer language that allowed me to learn the concepts, logic and reasoning that goes into writing a computer program. The basic principles in computer programming revolve around making lots of smaller choices to solve small problems while also solving larger problems using software. Consequently, the average person utilizes these skills on a daily basis, thus the challenge comes in when you have to translate those ideas into computer language (coding). 

As a Management Information Systems major at Florida International University (FIU), part of the curriculum included taking a course in one of the various programming languages. It was during this time, I got acquainted with writing code again through an Introduction to Visual Basic course. The course was challenging, but I learned quite a bit from the instructor, including proper techniques to utilize when teaching coding courses. During the remainder of this blog, I will focus on resources, best practices and techniques to help facilitate learning how to code. 

Best practices

1. Resist the temptation to assist - One of the things I admired about my professor in the FIU course is that she resisted the urge to tell students exactly what's wrong with their code/program. The professor instead would give clues as to what type of things to look for in the code, which taught me to learn how to search through the code myself, find the mistakes, and correct them. This came in handy after class was over and I began to write code for myself. 

2. Detail oriented - Coding is very detail-oriented. For those coding for the first time, it can be very easy to overlook minor details; however, those minor details will cause an entire program not to run. 

3. Problem solving - As mentioned previously, coding involves solving small issues on the way to solving a larger issue. 

4. Creative thinking - Coding involves a lot of critical thinking. Incorporate critical thinking skills into the course to help build the students creative thinking skills.  

5. Facilitator - The instructor should serve in the capacity of a coach. The coach should teach the fundamentals of coding and allow the students to execute. Students will undoubtedly become frustrated at some point; however, the coach should be there to provide encouragement and facilitate the students' learning through doing rather than providing hands-on assistance to complete the project.   

Resources

There are a number of free tools available for basic users to begin learning how to code. Please see below for a list of available tools.

www.codecademy.com - Codecademy is an education company. But not one in the way you might think. We're committed to building the best learning experience inside and out, making Codecademy the best place for our team to learn, teach, and create the online learning experience of the future.

www.code.org - Launched in 2013, Code.org® is a non-profit dedicated to expanding access to computer science, and increasing participation by women and underrepresented students of color. Our vision is that every student in every school should have the opportunity to learn computer science. We believe computer science should be part of core curriculum, alongside other courses such as biology, chemistry or algebra.

www.khanacademy.org - Khan Academy offers practice exercises, instructional videos, and a personalized learning dashboard that empower learners to study at their own pace in and outside of the classroom. We tackle math, science, computer programming, history, art history, economics, and more. Our math missions guide learners from kindergarten to calculus using state-of-the-art, adaptive technology that identifies strengths and learning gaps. We've also partnered with institutions like NASA, The Museum of Modern Art, The California Academy of Sciences, and MIT to offer specialized content.

Microsoft Youthspark Hub - Microsoft is committed to increasing access to computer science education. Through our global YouthSpark initiative, we partner with nonprofit organizations, schools, governments and other businesses to make more computer science education courses, trainings and resources available, so you can learn the computational thinking and problem-solving skills that will help you today and in your future.

Together with our partners, we’re working hard to make sure that that no matter where you live or what your background is — you have the opportunity to learn computer science and explore how it can help you achieve your goals and dreams.