A study has found that kids who can code tend to be more creative and better at problem solving.
While coding has only recently been added to curriculums, studies like this one conducted by OKdo have already shown the benefits of teaching kids how to code.
The researchers found that children who have been taught computer science skills are more likely to be better at maths, problem solving, creative thinking, teamwork and even time management.
In the study titled ‘Broader Benefits of Leading to Code’, OKdo surveyed nearly 7000 parents in the UK whose kids range from the ages of five to 16. They also surveyd primary and secondary school teachers.
It revealed that 96 per cent of teachers have seen first-hand evidence that educating children in computer science helps develop other useful skills, alongside general IT abilities.
On top of this, 82 per cent of teachers said that it helps enhance a child's ability to problem solve, 68 per cent said it would help develop mathematical skills and 60 per cent feel it improves a child’s ability to think creatively.
The assessments were also confirmed by proud parents, who ranked their child’s maths, writing, creative thinking, communication and teamwork ability as ‘above average for their age’ after learning coding, versus parents whose children hadn’t delved into the world of computer science just yet.
Before parents think twice about computer science education, there’s way more to it than just codes.
The study shows that it can enhance maths skills and help children get a lot more creative with new ideas. It also involves a lot of problem solving through analysing and addressing complex challenges, communication skills (since it’s pretty much a new language) and plenty of teamwork.
Clare Ford, expert educator and founder at SwitchedON! said: “Computer science education is fabulous for 'starting with the end in mind' and then reverse engineering – taking logical steps, one at a time, to create a bigger picture. This approach builds a growth mindset.”
Richard Curtin, SVP of technology at OKdo added: “We’ve long believed that computer science education gives kids more than just the obvious IT skills – it’s also helping children to improve their confidence in teamwork, problem-solving, communication and much more.
“It’s also clearly very effective at improving mathematics skills – 81 per cent of the maths teachers we spoke to say they’ve seen first-hand that coding in particular helps numerical competence too."
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