Community reviews for Code.org

I loved this! I saw so much subject integration opportunities and really saw the connection between the unplugged and plugged activities.

I have used different parts of Code.org and I really love it all. I think they have the teacher in mind in providing resources and classroom organization. I have used their help and support and they have always responded to me in a timely manner. One problem I have seen is that since many teachers are now using it, some students came into my class already having done some of the curriculum. But the good news is, they have places where kids can go to play and challenge themselves. Also, there is a great resource in the Teacher Forum. I have read ideas other teachers have done to assess or add to lessons.

I know the video game aspect and characters draw attention, but I am not sure that the students actually grasp the concepts that are being taught. I feel that it would be better if it was related more to real-world applications.

My overall opinion is wonderful. Student-led lets me walk around the room and monitor. Content is well scaffolded. Fast learners can work ahead. students love it. I'd say it's a win-win for teacher and student.

I believe code.org is a great tool for all students. My bilingual teachers are able to use the tool using the Spanish language. Differentiation instruction can be applied and teachers are able to facilitate their students while they complete a tutorial and then apply. I even used the tool with my teachers in having them create a short storyboard after completing a tutorial course. They were excited and engaged throughout the process and realized how effective the tool was in promoting student's creative and critical thinking.

This tool was super engaging for kids because they had a plethora of options to choose from that were all high interest. There was content that appealed to both male and female learners and the range of difficulty level was perfect for a spectrum of student ability. What was challenging for students was the log in process. I would create a screencastify tutorial to assist students in the future. Also challenging was the text heavy instructions, which was difficult for non-readers. Using extensions and peer supports to read the directions aloud were useful solutions to this challenge.

Its hard

My overall opinion of code.org is that it is a fantastic tool for students of all ages to get started with and dig deeper into the basics of coding and computer science. My students were intimidated by coding at first but after going through the beginning level games and watching themselves grow and advance through different levels of games their confidence has increased exponentially. I like that there are many choices for students that include both tech and non-tech options to learning the basics of coding and programming. I like that the options are broken up by grade bands so that my students won't choose games that are way over their heads or way too easy. I like that there was a certificate at the end of the week that students could get a tangible reward to work for and to take home to share with their parents. I like the way that the code.org website features current, timely, relevant characters for the coding games like Star Wars, Disney and more. My students were highly motivated to learn to code using their favorite characters! I can't even think of a way that the tool could be better used. I love it! My students loved it! It was the spark that my students needed to ignite a flame of passion and excitement about computer science and using robotics in the classroom!

My take? Well versed site for learning.

I hate it, no teacher or student should use it.