Coding

Coding at Beethoven

Beethoven Elementary is the only school on the Westside that provides instruction in computer coding (programming) during the regular school day. Instruction is provided by 9 Dots, a company that “creates original STEM projects that teach students to explore, inquire and innovate.” In June 2015, Beethoven was featured in the Argonaut Newspaper for its innovative Coding program through 9 Dots.

We are devoted to assuring that our students learn critical thinking skills, which are essential for success. Knowing how to code improves problem-solving and thinking skills, both of which are transferable and empowering. Microsoft chairman Bill Gates said, “Learning to write programs stretches your mind and helps you think better...it creates a way of thinking...[that] is helpful in all domains." The next leaders of Silicon Beach can get their start at Beethoven Elementary School!

What is coding?

Coding is telling a computer what you want it to do which involves typing in step-by-step commands for the computer to follow.

Why teach elementary students coding/computer science?

Linda Liukas, co-founder of a coding workshop program says coding is "the literacy of the 21st century." Every 21st century student should learn about algorithms, how to make apps, or how the internet works. Computer science is about logic, problem solving, and creativity. Those skills are among the higher level thinking skills. Studies show that 9 in 10 parents want their child to study computer science but only 1 in 4 schools teach computer programming. Beethoven is proud to be that 1 in 4!

What is a future in coding/computer science?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 1 million open computing jobs in the US by 2024. Computer science jobs will be the highest paying jobs. Every field will soon require some knowledge of computer science.

Skill Students Learn From Coding:

It helps students learn in meaningful context
It teaches them that learning is a process and not a product
It teachings them how to take complex ideas and break them down into simpler parts
It teaches them how to collaborate with others
It also teaches them how to keep persistent and persevere in the face of frustration when things are not working well
It teaches determination and risk-taking
It helps them become fluent with technologies and enable them to open up and express their ideas
It helps them be creative
It helps them interact with the world around them