Education in 2020 has made a significant shift to the online classroom and remote learning. 

Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of CodeWizardsHQ, we surveyed 2,000 American parents of school-aged children and examined both parents and students’ biggest challenges with digital learning during this unique school year. 

Read our top kids online learning statistics and download the infographic.

Kids Remote Learning Stats

94% of American parents are concerned about “summer slide” or learning loss as the result of COVID-related disruptions to the previous school year, according to new research.

55% of parents believe digital schooling is conducive to their child’s learning style.

On average, respondents’ children have been enrolled in digital or hybrid schooling for three months over the course of the current school year and the last. 

76% of those parents are also concerned that their child’s academic performance will be impacted by the shift to remote learning. 

According to parents, top remote learning pain points in this period include:

1. Bandwidth issues (54%)
2. Missing the group interactions of in-person class (40%)
3. Becoming distracted by other things in the remote schooling environment (39%)
4. Delays related to teachers’ tech learning curve (36%)
5. Struggling to focus during online class (32%)

When it came to the features that parents felt would make their child’s online learning process easier, having all classes recorded for reference (40%) and the ability to live chat teachers or instructors for help (35%) were among the most desired attributes.

Respondents also reported the skills and hobbies they would most like their children to take up in the future

• 3 in 10 parents wanted their kids to take part in engineering-related activities.
• 1 in 4 want their child to learn how to code, and 73% of parents, moreover, say that this school year for their children to try it, since fewer typical extracurricular activities will be available.

Coding Education Stats

According to parents, top skills parents want their children to acquire:

1. Engineering (31%)
2. Learning to code (26%)
3. Learning a different language (22%)
4. Writing (11%)
5. Starting their own business (5%)

In regards to coding education specifically, many parents see it as an important skill:

• 77% of American parents wish they had learned how to code while they were still in school.
• 63% of American parents think schools should teach programming of some sort as part of the core curriculum
• 73% of American parents say they would rather their child learn to code than learn a foreign language.
• 79% of parents want their child to learn how to code primarily so they can be an informed internet citizen

86% of parents worry that their child doesn’t have all of the skills they need to be successful in their future. So, parents are looking forward rather than at the current school year alone:

• Over half (55%) of American parents believe their child’s dream job is one that doesn’t even exist yet.  
• 68% of American parents believe their child will need to learn to code no matter what field they choose to enter. 
• Moreover, 77% of American parents believe that coding is the most important skill their child will need to succeed in the digital economy. 

Do you have an interesting statistic about kids online learning? Share with me in our Facebook group.

The post Kids Online Learning Statistics for 2020 appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

Imagine meeting a friend, but when they open their mouth to speak to you, all you hear is gibberish. When you ask them to explain, the explanation sounds like gibberish too. 

When you’re hearing new programming terms for the first time, it can easily feel like that! Command-line? An array? Huh?

Kids who learn coding are learning a new language that is complete with its own syntax and vocabulary. While not exactly gibberish, it probably seems like it from the outside. Many of these coding terms, definitions, and concepts can feel as foreign as being on a new planet. So, it’s important to understand and feel comfortable with coding jargon before diving into the written portion.

Code documentation and terminology gives a foundation for how a language works and how specific parts of your code will function. By learning the most common programming terms and concepts, kids can feel confident as they read and learn more about specific languages.

This list of the 200 common programming and coding terms is simplified for kids to be easy to understand. Kids can use it as a reference if they are learning or as a refresher if they’ve already started coding.

A

Abstraction

Simplified code or technology that’s easy to use without knowing how it works.

Active Record

Information in a database that’s presented to a user. This term is common in MVC (Model, View, Controller) development.

Agile Software Development

A process of building software in stages. Work is divided into short bursts called sprints. Separate teams may work on different parts of a project.

AJAX

A method for getting data from a web server that uses XML, JavaScript, and HTML.

Algorithm

A sequence of problem-solving steps. For example: Add a series of values together, and then divide by the number of values. These steps produce a mean or average.

Angular.js

A JavaScript front end framework for building websites. A collection of templates and pre-written code. 

Apache

Apache, or Apache HTTP Server, is an open-source and free web server software. Apache had a significant role in the initial growth of the internet and is also the “A” in LAMP Stack.

API

An application programming interface (API) allows interactions between multiple software programs so programmers have access to data and info from external software. The Google Maps API lets people use satellite photos and maps in their own programs. 

Apprenticeship

An agreement between an employer and an employee. The apprentice (employee) gets training and pay in exchange for work.

Argument

A number, text string, or other value required for a function to run its code. An argument is the x in f(x) = y.

Arithmetic Operators

These operators are used with numbers to perform basic math, for example “+” for addition. Computers have to add and subtract, multiply and divide to do almost anything. 

Array

A single variable that contains a list of data. For example, myNumbers = [0,1,2,3]. Here, myNumbers is an array of numbers.

ASCII  

American Standard Code for Information Interchange (ASCII) is a system for electronic communication. It has 128 numbers that stand for letters and other symbols. ASCII is the same all over the world. 

Assignment Operators

An operator that assigns a value to a variable. For example, “=” in Python assigns a value on the right to the variable on the left. 

Asynchronous Learning

Learning that may take place at a different time for each student. The material is usually recorded or pre-made.

Asynchronous Programming Languages

A programming language that doesn’t have to do things in the order they are written. Instead, it can do many things at once. For example, JavaScript.

Augmented Reality

Software that puts digital objects on images or videos of the real world. AR (Augmented Reality) is popular on smartphones.

Autonomous

Self-guiding and able to work independently without input from a person. Many drones and some cars are autonomous.

Recommended: Coding for Teens

B

Back End

The server side of the internet that the user can’t see. The back end stores, retrieves, and modifies data, it’s essentially the brains of a website. 

Backbone.js

A JavaScript library used mostly for one-page web apps to give structure and handle user input and interactivity.

Binary

A system of two possible states, zero and one. Computers operate in binary, meaning they store data and perform calculations using only zeros and ones.

Binary Alphabet

The numbers 0 and 1.

Binary Numbers

Combinations of zeroes and ones that make up a computer program. 

Bit

A single 0 or 1. It’s the smallest unit of information in computing and digital communications.

Block-based Programming Language

A visual programming language. Block-based programming lets users drag and drop blocks of code to make programs (as opposed to writing text). For example, Scratch is a block programming language.

Blockly

A block programming language created by Code.org. It’s used to teach kids how to code.

Boolean

The “true or false” logic that powers computers. The boolean data type has one of two possible values: it’s either true or false. 

Bootstrap (aka Twitter Bootstrap)

An open-source framework. A group of templates for building the front end of a website. A large set of HTML files, CSS stylesheets, and JavaScript. 

Bug

Broken code that causes a program to malfunction. Bugs often crash a program or make an error message appear.

Build

To build a program is to make it ready for users. Coders may use special tools to create “builds”, or finished applications.  First, coding, testing, and debugging must be completed.

Byte

A byte is eight bits. For example, 0000 0001.

C

C++

A powerful programming language. It’s used to build fast programs. C++ is common in computerized electronic devices. 

Call (a function)

A snippet of code that makes a function begin.

Call (a variable)

To call a variable is to use it somewhere in a program.

Camel Case

A form of capitalization used for naming variables. The first letter is always lowercase, and the first letter of every word after that is uppercase. For example, “thisVariable” is in camelcase.

Char

An abbreviation of the word “character.” It refers to a single letter, number, or symbol.

Class (HTML and CSS)

The class attribute specifies one or more class names for an HTML element. It’s mostly used to point to a class in a CSS page.

Class (Object Oriented Programming)

A template that defines the qualities of everything that belongs to it. Each member of a class is an object. 

Click

To press the button on a computer mouse.

Cloud

A remote data storage location, such as Dropbox. The cloud is a broad term that refers to general internet storage or services.

Code

The written content of a computer program. Code tells the computer what to do, where to store information, and what to show the user. 

Code Review

A process of looking through code for mistakes or bugs. Programmers sometimes do code reviews in teams. This increases their ability to find and fix errors. 

Coding

The process of writing a computer program. Coding is often the majority of what software engineers do. 

Coding Challenge

A problem given to a programmer during a job interview or at school. The programmer must solve it with code, and in the most efficient or effective way possible. 

Coding Languages

A human-readable language used to make computer programs. C, Java, and Python are examples of coding languages.

Command

An order the computer must carry out. Copy, Paste, and Print are examples of commands. 

Command-line

A computer program that works with text-only input from a user. 

Command-line Interface

A text-based way to interact with a computer. There are no buttons, dropdowns, or clickable elements.

Compilation

The procedure that translates code into a format the computer can use. Some programming languages are called compiled languages. They have to be compiled before they can be used. 

Compiler

A program that changes text-based code into the code a computer understands. The result is an application, often a .exe file. 

Computational Thinking

Reformatting a problem so it becomes solvable by a computer. 

Computer Program

A bundle of code that tells a computer what to do. Computer programs do all sorts of things. Some solve math problems. Some play music. Even video games are computer programs.   

Computer Science

The ideas that make it possible to solve problems with computers. A computer scientist knows about bits, bytes, code, and memory. 

Recommended: Computer Science Classes for Kids

Conditional Statements

A statement that helps a computer decide what to do next. A condition statement has an If/Then format. For example, If a = 1, then add a to b.

Constants

A number, text string, or symbol that never changes value while a program is running. Variables can increase or decrease in value. But a constant stays the same.

Crowdsourcing

The act of recruiting big groups of people to work on a project. People may work for free or for pay. But everyone contributes to the final goal.

CSS

The code that controls the appearance of a website. This includes things like font styles, colors, and margins. CSS stands for Cascading Style Sheets. 

Cybersecurity

A field of computing that deals with the safety of anything stored on a computer. The primary goal is to prevent hackers from stealing data or money. 

D

Data

Any information that can be stored or used in a computer program. Names, addresses, and phone numbers are data. 

Data Science

The science of finding patterns in data with computers. Facebook, Google, and even the government rely on data science. It helps them make better decisions and more useful products. 

Data Structures

The formats used to store and organize data in a computer program. Data structures make information as easy to access as possible. 

Data Types

The kind of information that a variable or constant can hold. Examples include strings, integers, and booleans.

Database (dbms)

A digital vault that stores information. Databases look like tables in a spreadsheet. A website stores usernames and passwords in a database. 

Debugging

The process of looking for and repairing coding errors. Debugging is an important part of software development.  

Declaration

A single word or symbol used to describe a function or variable. It defines the type of variable or function so the compiler or interpreter knows what to do with it. 

Decompose

To divide a complex challenge into smaller chunks. The goal is to make it easier to solve.

Define (a function)

To create a function and the code that goes inside it. After defining a function, the programmer can call it when needed.

Deployment

The process of launching an application or releasing it to users. 

Digital Footprint

Any piece of information you leave on a website. A blog post, a comment, or a “like” can be a digital footprint. 

Django

A Python framework for the web. Django makes Python website development easier. It’s a collection of templates and libraries. 

DNS (Domain Name Service)

A computer system that turns a written domain name into numbers. These numbers are called an IP (Internet Protocol) address. Computers need IP addresses to find websites.

Double-click

A quick pair of mouse clicks, usually to open an application.

Drag

To press and hold the button on a computer mouse, then move the mouse before releasing.

Drop

To let up on the mouse button after clicking and dragging. 

DRY

DRY stands for Don’t Repeat Yourself. This principle states, “Every piece of knowledge must have a single, unambiguous, authoritative representation within a system.”

DSL/Cable

A type of broadband (fast) internet service. It uses phone or coaxial cables.

Recommended: Coding Websites for Kids

E

Else Statements

An alternative inside an If statement. It essentially tells the computer, “Do one thing if something is true, or else do another thing if it’s not true.”

Endless Loop

A loop that never ends because the condition it depends on is always true. An endless loop is a bug. Every loop should end, otherwise, the program would be stuck.

Event

An event is something that triggers a response in a program. For example, a mouse click or a button press.

Event Handler

Code that responds to an event such as a mouse click or button press. 

Exception

An error that may be caused by a user or missing piece of data. 

Express.js

The backend framework for Node.js. Express is useful for modules and web apps. Developers can build APIs with Express.

Expression

An arithmetic statement such as 1+2 or x-y.

F

F.A.I.L.

An acronym for First Attempt In Learning. Failure is a regular part of the learning process.

Flask

Flask is a backend web framework written in Python. It’s an API of Python that lets us build up web applications quickly and easily without special tools or libraries.

For Loop

A block of code that repeats several times. The programmer must specify the number of times the code should repeat. 

Framework

A set of “templates” that programmers use to build programs quickly. Frameworks may contain pre-written code, markup, and APIs. Web frameworks exist for the front end and back end. 

Front End

The part of a computer program that a user sees and interacts with. The front end is also called the user interface. 

Full Stack Developer

A developer who works on the back end and front end of a website. 

Function

A chunk of code that takes input, manipulates it, and produces some kind of output. Programmers create a function just once, but they can use it over and over. 

Function Call

A short snippet of code that triggers a function to run. After writing a function, you must call it whenever you want to use it. 

Function Definition

The inner workings of a function. The code inside of a function that makes it work.

Recommended: 26 Reasons Learning to Code Benefits Your Child

G

Git

A version control system that tracks changes to code. Git is open-source, meaning you can access it for free. 

Github

An internet storage hub for code that works with Git. 

H

HAML

HAML (HTML Abstraction Markup Language) is a templating system that cleans and simplifies your HTML. It’s designed to avoid writing inline code in a web document.

Hardcode

Permanent code. Code that a programmer can’t change easily or at all. 

High-level Language

A programming language a person can read and understand. Python is a high level language. Machine code (for example, 00000001) is not.

HTML

HTML (HyperText Markup Language) is a markup language used to build basic websites. HTML determines what shows up on the page. 

HTTP Request

The method a web browser uses to ask for information from a server. HTTP stands for HyperText Transfer Protocol. 

I

IDE (Integrated Development Environment)

A program that developers use to write code. IDEs usually know a language’s keywords and can provide help. They can also run programs. 

If Statement

A conditional statement. It executes a certain block of code if some condition is true. 

Inheritance

The practice of basing a new piece of code on existing code. Programmers use inheritance to create an enhanced version of the original code. 

Input

The information that goes into a computer. User input is one type, which includes text, clicks, and button presses. 

IntelliJ

An integrated development environment (IDE) created for writing and running code. To start writing code in Java, you can use IntelliJ.

Internet

The internet is made of many computers and servers that are connected to each other. The web exists on the internet, but the internet is much larger than the world wide web.

IOS Swift

Swift is an Apple programming language. It combines elements from the C and Objective C languages. 

IP Address

A number associated with a website or a device on the internet. Printers and computers have IP addresses. 

Iteration

One pass of a loop. Each time a block of code is executed counts as one iteration of the for or while loop it belongs to.

Get latest in kids coding
activities, news, and resources!

Newsletter Sign Up

"*" indicates required fields

X/Twitter

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Email Address*

Name*

First Last

I am a …*

ParentStudentTeacher

I'm located in …*

United StatesCanadaOther

This field is hidden when viewing the form

Email_source*

Δ

J

Java

A programming language developed by Oracle. Java is popular for web and mobile applications. 

JavaScript

A popular coding language for websites and web apps. JavaScript runs on the client side. That means it runs in the browser instead of the computer where the website “lives”.

JavaScript Framework

A web framework in JavaScript used to build apps and websites.

jQuery

A JavaScript library that makes it easy to change elements on a webpage. 

JSON (JavaScript Object Notation)

A common data storage format used in many web apps. JSON files keep data organized. 

Junior Developer

The first job for many coders. Junior developers work under the guidance of more experienced pros.

K

Keywords

Predefined words in a programming language. These words have a special meaning. In an integrated development environment (IDE), keywords appear in special colors.

L

LAMP Stack

LAMP stack uses Linux operating system, the Apache HTTP Server, MySQL, and the PHP programming language. LAMP stack is a popular open-source web platform used by large web companies like Tesla and Lyft.

Linter

A linter, or lint tool, is a basic static code analyzer that checks your program for potential stylistic and programming errors. You can often find linters in your code editor and they are available for various programming languages today.

Linux

Like Windows, Linux is an operating system. But it’s open-source, so it’s free to use. Linux is popular with developers and runs on most web servers.

Local Environment

A personal computer or a server. This is where coders run programs before launching them. A local environment lets coders see their software in action before showing it to the world.

Loop

A block of code that runs over and over. A loop is an important part of any video game or animation. Loops are present in almost all programs. 

Low-level Language

A programming language that isn’t easy for a human to read. Low-level languages make fast computer programs, but they’re difficult to write. 

M

Machine Language

Long combinations of zeroes and ones that power a computer. All programs have to get turned into machine language in order to run.  

Machine Learning

A form of artificial intelligence where programs have the ability to automatically learn and improve from experience. Image recognition is a common type of machine learning. 

Main Function

The first function called after a C or C++ program starts.

Markup Language

A simple language that determines what appears on a computer screen. HTML and XML are markup languages.

MEAN Stack

A complete framework for web development. MongoDB is the M. Express.js is the E. Angular.js is the A. Node.js is the N.

Micro:bit

A tiny computer used in programming courses for kids. The Micro:bit works with lots of sensors and electronic accessories. 

MongoDB

A database for web applications. Mongo uses a JSON-like structure instead of rows and columns. 

MVC

Used for many kinds of development, MVC is a three-part design pattern. It stands for Model View Controller. Each piece of MVC handles a different part of a program. 

MySQL

The most common language used to put info into and take it out of databases. MySQL is often used with another language, like PHP. 

N

Neural Networks

A computer program modeled after the human brain. Neural networks learn over time, just like people.

Node.js

Node.js is a programming tool that lets you run JavaScript code outside of a web browser. 

Null

Empty or without value. Variables and columns in a database can sometimes be null.

O

Object Oriented Programming (OOP)

Programming with classes and objects. A class is simply a prototype that defines what its objects can do. Every object in the class has the class’s properties. 

Object Related Database Management System (ORDBMS)

Two database models in one. It’s part relational database and part object oriented. It has objects and classes as well as tables with rows and columns. 

Objects

A member of a class. It might help to think about a real-world analogy. For example, every person is an object that belongs to the class called “humans”.

Online

Connected to the internet. Someone can be online with a computer, a mobile phone, or another electronic device.

Open-Source Software Development

Software that is free for anyone to use. The code for open-source software is available to developers who want to work on it. They can make improvements and add features.

Operand

The variable or value that will be used in an operation. For example, x and y are operands in the x+y.

Operator

An arithmetic symbol such as a plus sign or a minus sign. Or a multiplication sign, division sign, greater than or less than sign. 

OS (Operating System)

The software that makes a computer work. It’s responsible for organizing files. An operating system also determines what software can run on the machine. 

Output

The content that comes out of a computer. Output may be text or numbers. It could even be sound or video.

P

Package

An organization tool for classes in Java. A package keeps large collections of files neatly ordered. 

Packets

A block of information that moves from one computer to another. 

Pair Programming

Two coders working together on a project. One person codes while the other watches and checks the code for errors.

Parameter

The input of a function. A parameter gets replaced by an argument when the function is called.

Pattern Matching

The process of looking for identical characters or data in a dataset.

Persistence

When a piece of data, information, or web page remains accessible. Persistent data doesn’t get deleted when you close the program. 

PHP

A scripting language frequently used for websites. PHP uses tags like HTML, but a PHP website can do much more and the content can change with user input. 

Pixel

The basic unit of digital displays. A pixel is a little square that can be one of many colors. Every image on a screen is made up of hundreds or even thousands of pixels.

Pointer

Like variables, pointers store information. But a pointer contains a memory address instead of data. It “points” to the address somewhere in computer memory.

Postgresql

An open-source database. To store or retrieve something, a programmer can write code in SQL.

Program

Written code that runs on a computer. Most programs consist of user interfaces and logic. Adobe Illustrator is a computer program. So is Microsoft Outlook. 

Programming

The process of writing code that will become a computer program.

Programming Language

The keywords and special rules people use to write computer programs. Every language has some of its own rules and keywords, but they also have many things in common.

Project-based Learning

Learning by building real projects. It’s possible to learn just by studying concepts, but project-based learning is designed to be fun and to feel like real development. 

Python

An open-source programming language. Python is popular because it’s somewhat easy to learn. Many big applications were made in Python including YouTube and DropBox.

R

A programming language used in data science. 

React

A JavaScript library built by Facebook. Its main purpose is to help with user interface (UI) development. 

React Native

A type of React that lets developers use the same code for different platforms. 

Relational Database Management System (RDBMS)

A program for making and updating databases that use tables.

Repeat  

To perform an action more than once.

REST / RESTful

A set of rules that makes it possible for computers to communicate with each other. REST (Representational State Transfer) makes the world wide web possible.

Ruby

Ruby is a programming language designed to be readable. It’s object oriented and useful for all kinds of applications. AirBnB and GitHub were built on Ruby. 

Ruby on Rails

Ruby’s full-stack web framework. If you want to build web applications with Ruby, Rails makes it easier. 

Run Program

To start a computer program.

Runtime

Runtime is the stretch of time when a computer program is running. 

S

SASS

SASS (Syntactically Awesome Style Sheets) is a scripting language that is interpreted into Cascading Style Sheets (CSS). It helps you keep your CSS organized and lets you create style sheets faster.

Scratch

The block programming language developed by MIT. Scratch coding is a great first language for young coders. To build a program, all you need to do is click, drag, and drop blocks into place.

Scripting Language

Any language that doesn’t need to be compiled or interpreted. JavaScript is one example.

Scripts

Small programs that do limited steps. Scripts can be part of bigger programs.

Search Engine

Google, Bing, and Yahoo are search engines. They find websites and information based on keywords provided by the user. 

Server

A computer that hosts websites and data. Servers store the information that other people can access on the internet.

Server-side

On the computer that hosts a website instead of on the user’s browser. Sites like WordPress use PHP on the server-side and JavaScript on the client (user) side. 

Source Code

The code written by programmers that becomes software. First, the source code has to get translated into machine code by a compiler.

Source Data

The main location where data is used in a program. Source data can be from a database, spreadsheet, or hard-coded. The program can retrieve the data from this source then use it.

Sprint

A period of several days during which a software team works on specific tasks. For each sprint, every member of the team has a certain amount of work to get done.

Sprites

A character or a moving object in a computer game. Sprites respond to button presses, clicks, or other user input.

SQL (Structured Query Language)

The most popular programming language for adding and retrieving information from a relational database.

Stack

Several programs used to build apps for the web or mobile devices. Example stacks are LAMP, WAMP, and MEAN.

Statement

An instruction to a computer written in code. Statements can include text, numbers, and symbols.

Synchronous Learning

Learning that occurs when a student and teacher are online at the same time. This is the kind of learning that happens in CodeWizardsHQ coding classes.

Syntax

The structure of a language. The rules that state in what order words must appear. Each programming language has its own syntax. 

T

Teaching Language

The language used in a programming course. For young learners, block languages like Scratch are common. In many courses, Python is the chosen teaching language.

Tensor Flow

A library built by Google for creating neural networks. Tensor flow is open-source. 

Terminal

Mac’s text-based user interface. In the terminal, users can open files and folders, move things around, and do many other things.

Token

One word, symbol, or operator in a computer program. A plus sign is a token. In most languages, the word “function” is too. 

Training

In machine learning, programs need training. To train a program, you give it as much data as possible. Usually, the more data the better. 

U

URL (Universal Resource Locator)

The text you type into your browser to get to a website. URL stands for Universal Resource Locator.

Usability Testing

The process of observing users to make sure your software works as they expect. Usable software is easy for people to work with. 

User Experience (UX) Design

The design of interactions between a user and a product. The process of making something fun and easy to use. UX isn’t just for software, but that’s where it started.

User Interface (UI) Design

The process of creating the visual parts of a computer program. This includes the buttons, colors, and icons.

Username

A nickname that you type in when you want to enter a certain website or application. 

V

Variable

A container that holds a value, such as a piece of text or a number. The value can change, which is why it’s stored in a variable.

Variable Types

The kind of information a variable can hold. Strings, ints, and lists are variable types in Python. 

Version Control

Software that lets coders save several versions of their code. This prevents previous work from getting deleted or lost. It also helps programmers keep track of changes.

W

Website

Several web pages that are linked together and stored on the same server. 

While Loop

A bit of code that runs over and over as long as some condition is true. For example, a loop might run while a certain number is less than 6 and stop once it reaches 6.

Whiteboarding

The process of brainstorming collaboratively in person or virtually. Ideas on code, pseudocode, or charts are organized on a physical whiteboard or virtual tool representing a whiteboard.

Wi-Fi

A way to send and retrieve data without wires. Wi-Fi uses radio waves to transfer information.

X

Xcode

An IDE from Apple for developers who want to build software for Apple devices. 

XML

A markup language that looks similar to HTML and controls the way information shows up on a screen. But XML files also work outside of web browsers.

Free Coding Terms Flashcards

Practice these coding terms for kids with a free set of printable flashcards. Just print, cut, and fold to get started. Over 200 programming terms are explained just for kids.

Download free flashcards now.

Take your coding knowledge to the next level

Don’t understand a term or have one to add? Join our Facebook group for help from our teachers and coding community. 

There are many free coding programs for kids to start practicing this new coding vocabulary.

When you’re ready to take your learning to the next level, check out our live coding classes for kids!

• Elementary School Coding Classes
• Middle School Coding Classes
• High School Coding Classes

The post Kids guide to 200+ common programming terms and definitions appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

New technologies and jobs are being created at a blistering pace all around us. Many of these cutting-edge technologies and jobs are related to a group of studies known as STEM. So, what does STEM stand for, and what’s its importance for your child?

STEM education is all about preparing kids for a digital future and understanding the new world around them. Therefore, STEM fields are imperative for 21st-century career readiness and global competitiveness.

What does STEM stand for?

STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.

S – Science
T – Technology
E – Engineering
M – Math

It is an acronym coined in 2001 by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF).

What is STEM? STEM Meaning and Definition

STEM (Science, Engineering, Technology, and Mathematics) is an approach to education that focuses on the hard sciences, develops critical thinking skills, and improves problem-solving abilities.

Education in STEM aims to give students the tools they’ll need to succeed in school, work, and hobbies. It’s like a toolbox full of smaller toolsets for designing and making things. Inside a carpenter’s toolbox, you might find sets of drill bits, ratchets and wrenches, chisels, and other useful gadgets. Similarly, STEM disciplines are like those little toolsets. Each is useful in its own right, but most activities require more than one.

Coding can apply across all STEM disciplines. It is part of the technology category, but science, engineering, and math also utilize code and programming.

Recommended: STEM Classes for Kids

What are the benefits of STEM education?

STEM education equips kids with competencies that will enable them to overcome personal challenges, pursue a college education or career in technical fields such as software engineering or artificial intelligence, find creative solutions to difficult problems, and understand how the world works. For example, perseverance is important to success in almost any endeavor. 

STEM helps kids learn to stick with difficult tasks and abstract ideas. Math is hard. Coding is too. In fact, professionals in STEM fields often enjoy complex problems. Likewise, kids who push through the frustrations learn that great rewards lie on the other side of big challenges. John F. Kennedy articulated the attitude of STEM professionals in 1962 when he said, “We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard.” 

Kids who believe in themselves tend to do better in school. Writing code and seeing it work is satisfying. Building a robot, programming it to execute a task, and watching it happen is thrilling. But while kids are having fun, they’re also building confidence. That confidence is important in test-taking and academic achievement.

Throughout the STEM curriculum, students have opportunities to use and get comfortable with technology. Computers, peripherals, sensors, and other instruments are important tools in many STEM classrooms and education programs.

There are many benefits to empowering kids with STEM, yet it appears the US is falling behind in STEM education. 

Recommended: Why Your Kids Should Learn Coding

What are STEM skills?

Skills gained from STEM education include:

• Complex Problem-solving
• Critical thinking
• Reasoning
• Creativity
• Teamwork
• Self-confidence

Science is a body of knowledge and a method of inquiry. It’s about asking the right questions and finding accurate answers. The basic sciences taught in class prepare STEM students to explore biology, chemistry, and physics. Often, collaborative projects are involved, so kids need to be able to work together. Science classes introduce the thrill of experimentation and discovery to individual students as well as teams. And because modern-day scientists use computers and technology in much of their work, science classes frequently incorporate these tools. 

Technology is used in various forms to turn ideas into real things. 3D printers, CNC machines, robotics, and the Internet of Things (IoT) are just a few of the tools that enable creators to transform imagination into reality. Coding is also an important technology discipline. For that reason, kids in STEM learn about these tools and how to use them. 

Engineering is about designing, testing, and building. These skills are part of the STEM curriculum and sometimes require software or other tools. Kids may learn to use CAD/CAM software to design a part, analyze its physical properties, and generate the code required to actually make it on a 3D printer or CNC machine.

Math skills for STEM include everything from basic arithmetic to calculus. Students may need to do some manual calculations, but they should also know how to use powerful tools like Python’s built-in math libraries. Probability, graphing, linear algebra, and other tasks are fast and accurate with the right tools. Students in STEM may learn about these tools much earlier than their peers.

Recommended: Free Coding for Kids Resources

How can I improve my STEM skills?

There are many educational and fun ways to improve problem-solving, math, and coding skills. 

• STEM kits
• Online STEM classes
• STEM clubs and competitions

STEM kits let kids explore electronics, robotics, and programming. Arduino, SparkFun, and other companies make small, programmable computers that can hook up to sensors, motors, lights, speakers, and other gadgets. Online STEM classes are also a convenient and affordable way to explore a variety of STEM subjects. Clubs and competitions can build teamwork and STEM skills. In addition, books are a great resource for kids who like to read. 

Some online and in-person classes combine multiple STEM fields, such as computer science, programming, and math. Multi-disciplinary, project-based courses can make learning fun. Live, instructor-led coding courses like those from CodeWizardsHQ give kids personal attention that can keep them in sync with their peers. 

Popular STEM careers

Top STEM jobs in 2024

Lucrative and popular STEM careers exist in many seemingly disparate fields, such as computer programming, medicine, and statistics. Additionally, jobs in these areas tend to pay quite well. According to U.S. News and World Report’s ranking of the 30 best STEM careers in 2024, eight of the top 10 STEM jobs come with annual salaries above $100,000. The number two position on the list is Software Developer, with an average yearly income of $127,260. The list ranks jobs based on salary, unemployment rate, growth, and other factors. Here are the 10 best STEM jobs:

Types of STEM Careers

Careers in the hard sciences, like biology, chemistry, neuroscience, and physics, are ideal for many STEM students. Mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, electrical engineering, architecture, and industrial design are excellent for people who enjoy designing and building things. Computer science and programming are also popular fields for those who appreciate logic and creative problem-solving. 

According to the U.S. Census Bureau in 2021, majoring in STEM may pay off even for those who end up working in non-STEM fields. Among the 50 million employed college graduates ages 25 to 64 in 2019, 37% reported a bachelor’s degree in science or engineering but only 14% worked in a STEM occupation. STEM workers who majored in a STEM field in college typically made higher salaries than those who did not: on average, $101,100 vs. $87,600.

STEM skills can be useful in other careers too, like technical writing.

A technical writer plans and writes instruction manuals for scientific instruments, lab equipment, machinery, software, and just about any kind of product. In order to produce helpful instructions, the writer needs to understand how the product works and has to be able to communicate that information in simple terms. Manufacturers, government agencies, software publishers, and social media companies employ technical writers to communicate with their users.

Many trade jobs require a high degree of computer literacy and some familiarity with programming. For example, in the woodworking industry, CNC machines cut, route, and drill the parts that become cabinets and furniture. A skilled woodworker programs and troubleshoots those machines. Success in the woodworking trade now depends, in part, on computer skills. A basic knowledge of programming concepts is also beneficial, and will probably be even more so as automation increases.

STEM is even helpful for some sales professionals.

Imagine being a sales representative for a company that manufactures environmental monitoring instruments. Your prospective clients might be scientists or engineers. As a result, they’ll expect you to understand enough about what they do to provide them with equipment that meets their needs. That could mean having a solid grasp of basic chemistry, data science, or some other technical subject. 

Recommended: STEM Education Statistics

Is coding a part of STEM?

Coding for kids is one of those skills that can be applied broadly across many different disciplines. While coding is often compared to learning a language, the skills learned in coding are actually more closely related to the STEM subjects.

For instance, the process of debugging code aligns nicely with the scientific method. Coders and scientists both test their hypotheses through experimentation. They observe the results and adjust based on what they see. Math concepts can easily be seen in coding. Things like measuring distances and working with variables are foundational. And many of our technologies and engineering jobs are dependent upon a firm foundation of code. When we look at the concepts that make up STEM, coding is linked with each of them.

Taking a coding class is a great way to get introduced to STEM education. 

Recommended: 25 Fun STEM Activities for Kids

Is STEM good for kids?

Some of the most prominent figures in business and technology started tinkering with STEM subjects as kids. When he was just 12 years old, Elon Musk was already so adept at coding that he was able to build and sell his first computer game. At the same age, Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg created messaging software that enabled the staff in his dad’s dental office to communicate from different parts of the building. Zuckerberg had a private tutor. Musk loved to read. But both were interested in STEM when they were quite young. 

STEM education has myriad benefits for young people. For instance, it introduces them to exciting subjects that can lead to lucrative and fulfilling career opportunities. For girls especially, early exposure to computer science appears to make them more likely to major and work in the field. With companies like Google making efforts to achieve gender parity, opportunities for girls in tech are expanding. 

Kids who study STEM can build the foundation required to pursue degrees in high-paying fields like computer science. Graduates with degrees in this field earn more over their lifetimes than graduates with other degrees.

Why is STEM so important in early childhood education?

Getting into STEM early can be the key to a lifelong interest and a productive career in related disciplines, especially for girls. Women currently represent a smaller percentage of people with a STEM career than men. Women remain underrepresented in engineering (15%), computer (25%) and physical science (45%) occupations (U.S. Census Bureau). But some organizations are trying to change that, and they need qualified candidates with STEM backgrounds to do it. 

STEM teaches kids the skills they need to do well in school, and not just in their STEM classes. For example, critical thinking is valuable in reading, writing, and other subjects too. STEM also gets students interested in constructive hobbies. Many people working in computer science and engineering started out by experimenting with computer programming, ham radio, or electronics as kids. 

How do I get my child into STEM?

The earlier your child can get into STEM education, the better. There are afterschool coding programs for in elementary school, middle school, and high school. Online education is an easy and convenient way to get started. Good programs make learning fun and help kids build skills that apply broadly. For example, CodeWizardsHQ coding classes for elementary students start with the fundamentals of the Scratch programming language. Scratch is a visual language that involves dragging little blocks of code around the screen and connecting them, but the concepts it uses apply to all languages.

Resources for getting kids into STEM

Opportunities for kids to get into STEM are numerous and span the technological spectrum. The following list includes digital and non-digital ways to get started.

Kids Ages 5 and Under

• • Let’s Go Code is an activity set that teaches programming fundamentals with fun games. Everything in this set happens away from the computer, so it’s fun for younger kids.

• • DragonBox Algebra is a mobile game designed to teach algebra to kids as young as five. It may seem impossible for kids that young to learn something so complex as algebra, but Dragonbox makes it fun and easy.

• • Baby Loves Science is a collection of four books about STEM written specifically for young children.

Kids Ages 6-10

• • STEM Machines makes kits that let kids explore physics, engineering, and other topics by assembling little machines. There are several different kits and each covers a different topic. 

• • Lego Chain Reactions is a small set of Lego building blocks and a book with instructions for several cool Lego machines. Kids will need to have some Legos already, but the kit includes all of the special blocks necessary.

• • For some students, the language of math can be confusing. This is certainly true once kids get into algebra. For example terms like such that, simplify, and evaluate aren’t always intuitive to children. My First 100 Mathematics Words introduces math vocabulary in just 24 pages of colorful drawings.

Kids Ages 11-13

• • Dragonbox Algebra 12+ is the sequel to the Dragonbox 5+ mobile game mentioned above. It teaches more complex algebra using the same techniques and play style as the first game. 

• • CarnegieSTEMGirls.org is a website about STEM that’s tailored to girls. There are links to classes, books, and activities. The site also has information for parents. 

• • Adafruit sells a wide variety of electronics like motors, sensors, single board computers, and more. They also have lots of tutorials and helpful resources for anyone wanting to explore electronics. 

Kids Ages 14-18

• • Single-board computers from Arduino are excellent for teenagers who want to explore coding and robotics. The project opportunities are limitless, but the first step is to check out Arduino’s website and learning resources.

• • YouTube is full of videos about STEM topics, but not all of the content is worth watching. However, I Like to Make Stuff is one channel every aspiring maker should see. Bob, the channel’s creator, films himself building various projects and always narrates the whole process of creating something. 

• • Krista King is another YouTuber, and her channel is one of the best resources for math students on the internet. Her videos range from middle school math topics to calculus, and she does a great job explaining complex topics in easy to understand terms. 

Recommended: Coding Classes for Teens

CodeWizardsHQ classes can get kids started in STEM from home.

Online computer science classes provide easy access to STEM education and fun projects that keep kids excited about learning. CodeWizardsHQ students develop coding skills quickly with interesting challenges like building animations and games. Coding classes are 12 sessions long and delivered live by expert instructors. During class, students learn core programming concepts by building increasingly complex projects and progressing through the curriculum. 

Elementary students master programming basic starting with simple games, moving through web development, and taking off into more difficult challenges. Middle school coding starts with classes in Python, a powerful language used for everything from web development to data science. Then, in high school coding classes, students dive into deep topics like algorithms, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.

Kids who get into STEM will be prepared for the challenges they’ll face throughout their schooling and later in life. Opportunities to get into science, technology, engineering, and math are abundant. There have never been so many interesting ways to get started. The key is to take that first step. Now is a great time to do it. 

The post What Does STEM Stand For? appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

Technology innovation is exploding at a pace never before seen in history. Parents and students are paying attention and taking action.  Learning programming and coding skills isn’t a luxury – it’s a critical path for success.

Here are 10 resources for parents interested in coding for their children.

Summer programs now available!
3-week summer classes and 1-week coding camps. Enroll today.

The post Top 10 Coding Resources for Kids – July 2019 appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

Garima was like any other middle school kid who thought sitting at a computer and typing stuff would be boring.

But now she is a rising star at Yale!

Garima never tried coding until she was in sophomore year of high school. But when she reflects back on her high school years, she feels she should have started learning to code much earlier!

As a mentor at the Girls Who Code chapter in Westwood, Garima wants kids to understand that coding is actually fun and rewarding too.’

Read about Garima’s journey through learning to code, in her own words.

What got you interested in coding?

For a long time, I thought I would never like to code. So, I never tried it. My very first exposure to coding was and Intro to HTML/CSS class in summer 2013 that I took with Girl Develop It in Austin. I enjoyed that, which was surprising to me at the time. That year, which was my sophomore year of high school, I took AP Computer Science on a whim and that hooked me on to coding.

Why did you learn to code?

I began learning in 10th grade when I took AP Computer Science. After that, I was so interested in coding that I learned more languages and skills. The reason I am so interested in coding is the logical problem solving and creativity involved in coding a project.

You started the very successful Round Rock CoderDojo and also the Girls Who Code chapter in Westwood. How did you come up with that idea and what motivated you to get it started?

Growing up, I never imagined that I would get interested in coding. The thought of sitting at a computer “typing stuff” bored me. After I became interested in coding, I realized that negative stereotypes about coding had kept me from discovering its appeal earlier in my life. I knew that girls seem to think coding is boring, intimidating, or nerdy. Girls Who Code gave me the perfect opportunity to change that mindset and share my passion for programming with other girls.

I had also noticed that despite being such huge consumers of technology, the youth at large (especially young girls) is still not motivated to becoming creators of it. I wanted to educate kids and their parents and show them that coding can be fun and rewarding. The CoderDojo philosophy of getting the community all together and having them learn by doing, teaching and sharing appealed to me.

How did learning to code help you get into Yale? Is there anything about coding or the experience of starting all of these coding organizations helpful in that context?

I think the leadership skills and mentoring skills that I gained through running both the Girls Who Code Club and CoderDojo Round Rock were helpful to get into Yale. However, it is impossible to know how or why I actually got into Yale, as that information is never disclosed to us.

What is the scene at Yale with respect to coding? Is coding and CS infused into a variety of disciplines?

Computer science is a separate discipline and major at Yale. However, there are also majors that incorporate coding as part of their requirements.

When is the right age to start learning to code?

There is no right age! I started coding at what many would consider a late age, but that does not prevent me from pursuing a career in the field. Anyone can learn to code and there are now so many online resources for anyone who wants to learn.

What advice would you give for kids who are grappling with coding, particularly once they go beyond the basics?

Once the basics of coding have been mastered, there are no more rules to learn that should be followed. The best way to continue developing your coding skills is to build projects. Start with small projects, maybe a simple interface. Also, don’t be afraid to use Google, everyone does it.

The post Kids Coding Is Fun And Rewarding appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

If you are like most parents, you are anxious to make good use of your child’s summer time.

We have started receiving lots of calls from parents.

If you are thinking about getting coding classes for your child, then summer is a golden opportunity you shouldn’t miss. Here is why. 

Learning any new skill is challenging at first.

You get stuck on the mechanics.
You waste time on dead-ends.
You forget things you learned.
You get confused about concepts you thought you understood.

It’s frustrating.

But once you persevere through it, you start to get the hang of it.

You start figuring little things out.
Every mini success deepens your interest.
You get engaged with the challenge in front of you.
You start creating things that you feel proud of.

Learning becomes fun. You’re on a roll. You have survived the dip. 

Any child can learn to code, but not every child survives the dip.

Besides having an interest, what is the most important thing a child needs in order to survive the dip of learning to code?

TIME. 

Time to work on coding.
Time without distractions.
Time without competing priorities.
Time without impending deadlines.

It is hard to get that time during school year  During summer, they have plenty of time.

If they utilize that time to start learning to code and get through the initial dip, then summer is a roaring success.

However, summer is not the end-game.

It is hard for anyone to master coding in one summer. To have meaningful skills, they need to continue learning during the school year.

It is much easier to CONTINUE during school year, than START during school year. 

Our program is setup to accomplish exactly that for your child.

Our 3-week summer classes and 1-week online summer camps give them the initial launch and momentum. Most students come out of that excited about learning to code.

After that, they take our regular weekly classes and continue their learning until they complete our full curriculum.

55 minutes a week to continue learning something that they have come to enjoy becomes very doable.

By the time the next summer rolls around, your child will know more coding and programming than 99.9% of the students out there! 

Don’t miss the summer. Get them started. Then, it’s easy to continue during school year.

If your child masters this crucial 21st century skill, it will set him or her up for unprecedented level of college and career success. 

Check out whether or not our summer coding program is right for your child. If you have questions, feel free to call us at 1-800-213-2417.

The post Summer is a Great Opportunity for Doing This appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.