LEARNING TO CODE

AT A YOUNG AGE

CAN IMPROVE MATHS SKILLS

Learning to code at a young age can improve mathematical and numerical abilities. Several studies and educational reports highlight the benefits of coding on a child's cognitive development, especially in areas related to math skills.

  1. Improved Problem-Solving and Logical Thinking: Coding requires breaking down problems into smaller, manageable parts (decomposition), which is similar to solving maths problems. This improves children's logical thinking, a core aspect of mathematics. Studies suggest that early exposure to programming enhances children's ability to reason logically, which translates into better performance in math-related tasked Computational Thinking:** Computational thinking, which is central to coding, involves recognising patterns, abstracting details, and creating step-by-step solutions. These skills are directly applicable to mathematics, particularly in areas like algebra, geometry, and even calculus. Research has shown that children who engage in programming demonstrate stronger abilities in these types of mathematical reasoning.

  2. Applying Mathematical Concepts: Coding regularly requires children to apply mathematical concepts like variables, equations, and functions. Programming languages often include working with coordinates, loops, and sequences, which are fundamental in understanding mathematical operations. For example, game development or robotics projects often involve spatial reasoning and measurements, which reinforce their maths skills.

  3. Enhanced Engagement with Numbers and Patterns: Coding activities engage children with numbers and patterns, essential for maths learning. When children use loops and algorithms, they frequently interact with numbers in a meaningful way. According to research by the National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT), students who learn to code develop a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts due to their frequent engagement with numbers and structures within programming environments.

  4. **Evidence from a study conducted by Researchers from Tufts University found that children who learned to code in Scratch—a beginner's programming language—showed significant improvements in maths skills, particularly in understanding complex concepts like number sequences, geometry, and problem-solving.

In conclusion, coding can reinforce mathematical learning by enhancing logical reasoning, computational thinking, and practical application of maths concepts. This growing body of research highlights how coding can be a powerful tool to boost children's maths abilities from an early age.

LEARNING TO CODE AT A YOUNG AGE CAN IMPROVE MATHS SKILLS

Learning to code at a young age can improve mathematical and numerical abilities. Several studies and educational reports highlight the benefits of coding on a child's cognitive development, especially in areas related to math skills.

  1. Improved Problem-Solving and Logical Thinking: Coding requires breaking down problems into smaller, manageable parts (decomposition), which is similar to solving maths problems. This improves children's logical thinking, a core aspect of mathematics. Studies suggest that early exposure to programming enhances children's ability to reason logically, which translates into better performance in math-related tasked Computational Thinking:** Computational thinking, which is central to coding, involves recognising patterns, abstracting details, and creating step-by-step solutions. These skills are directly applicable to mathematics, particularly in areas like algebra, geometry, and even calculus. Research has shown that children who engage in programming demonstrate stronger abilities in these types of mathematical reasoning.

  2. Applying Mathematical Concepts: Coding regularly requires children to apply mathematical concepts like variables, equations, and functions. Programming languages often include working with coordinates, loops, and sequences, which are fundamental in understanding mathematical operations. For example, game development or robotics projects often involve spatial reasoning and measurements, which reinforce their maths skills.

  3. Enhanced Engagement with Numbers and Patterns: Coding activities engage children with numbers and patterns, essential for maths learning. When children use loops and algorithms, they frequently interact with numbers in a meaningful way. According to research by the National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT), students who learn to code develop a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts due to their frequent engagement with numbers and structures within programming environments.

  4. **Evidence from a study conducted by Researchers from Tufts University found that children who learned to code in Scratch—a beginner's programming language—showed significant improvements in maths skills, particularly in understanding complex concepts like number sequences, geometry, and problem-solving.

In conclusion, coding can reinforce mathematical learning by enhancing logical reasoning, computational thinking, and practical application of maths concepts. This growing body of research highlights how coding can be a powerful tool to boost children's maths abilities from an early age.