Frequently Asked Questions on Coding for Kids - Part 1

The buzz about coding has made it to the nook and corner but the exact understanding of coding is still limited to the scope of programmers. Commonly non-techs defer it to be something related to computers and how they process the information we see. However, this vague understanding of coding serves no purpose. If you’re one among those who find this brainstorming and exciting, then this series of blogs is the Wikipedia for you unveiling all the coding related questions at the single platform.

So, let’s begin with very basics of Coding and questions related to it!

What is coding?

It is the entire science behind software development. Coding is how we communicate with computers. It is a list of step-by-step instructions that get computers to do what you want them to do. It makes it possible for us to create computer software, games, apps, and websites. in simpler terms, it means feeding our commands in the computer in a language the computer understands and perform the task.

Why to learn coding?

Coding can help you get closer to your dreams by enhancing your technical as well as interpersonal skills. Whether you are looking for a new opportunity, want to optimize your current job, or are simply searching for a new hobby, coding serves it all to your platter. It is the most valued skill currently in the digital era. Besides providing prospects for a lucrative job it builds your systematic and organizational skills and boosts your confidence.

What is coding used for?

In a broader sense, coding is used to run the simplest of appliances and gadgets used in today’s world. Making desktop apps is one of the innumerous purposes of coding. Other major important applications of coding are listed here. • Coding finds excessive use in popular gadgets such as applications on the phone, computers, smartwatches, and smart TV. • Coding is used in automated cars from clutches to air conditioning, to fuel injectors. • System analogues employed in controlling sewages, electrical grids, traffic lights, etc. • Coding finds use in every phase of the current world.

How does coding work?

Computers are built up of transistors which act as the ‘brain’ of the computer. Hence, the computer only understands the language of 1 and 0 (on and off respectively), in a binary system. These binary codes form the machine code, with each number directing your computer to change a sequence in its memory. Programming languages make the binary code language of the computers more manageable by translating our commands into binary code.

What is the difference between coding and programming?

An essential distinction between coding and programming is that Coding is a part of programming that deals with converting the language into binary commands for the machine while Programming is the process of creating a program that follows certain standards and performing a certain task.

What is Computer Programming?

It is a step-by-step process of designing and developing various sets of computer programs to accomplish a specific computing outcome. The process comprises several tasks like analysis, coding, algorithm generation, checking accuracy and resource consumption of algorithms, etc. The purpose of computer programming is to find a sequence of instructions that solve a specific problem on a computer. What is the Difference between programmer and coder? Anyone who can write some code is often referred to as a coder But, usually, coders are considered the least trained or experienced level of programmers. Whereas programmer or developer is more experienced code writers who are versed in at least two to three languages and write clean, error-free codes. They can apply their algorithmic knowledge to create more sophisticated levels of software coding.

What are the advantages of coding?

In this tech-savvy world, mastering program learning is proven to increase your communication, and analogical skills, analytical thinking, boosts confidence, makes you a problem-solver and also provides you an array of opportunities to grow professionally and personally.

Is Learning to Code Difficult?

Coding isn’t that hard for tech-savvy people who patiently put in the time and effort to learn. Coding gets an unnecessarily bad reputation from people who were not persistent enough to practice. Once the easier computer languages are mastered, it’s relatively simple to learn other ways to code.

What are the Popular Coding Languages to Learn?

Since the 1970s, computer experts have created more than 700 different programming languages. There are only about a dozen programming languages that are commonly used. These include HTML, Java, CSS, C language, C++, Python, SQL.

Is coding a good career?

Yes, coding is a good career because there is an opportunity, and much of that opportunity is well-paid. Coding can also be a rewarding career given its impact on the everyday world and can be fun for those with interests in a wide-ranging list of topics.

Why Learn to Code Now?

Computational thinking is a valuable cross-discipline skill as the world is increasingly computerized, demand for the skills is still on the rise. Thus, making coding an essential skill and investment for the future. Also, Coding is essential in fields like information technology, cybersecurity, and fintech. Especially in this age of social distancing, coding is a job you can do from home.

Why schools in India need to teach coding?

With growing technological interventions, both parents and educators believe that in a country like India, where the education system grapples with lack of innovation, infrastructure, and archaic curriculum, coding is a well-structured way to introduce children to logical thinking and problem-solving. This also prepares them for a job market dominated by data science and computer science.

What are the benefits of computer programming for students?

Computer programmers can produce a program or an app that could help us solve an everyday problem, or allow us to learn something new, develop analytical thinking, be the problem solver, learn how to communicate, develop entrepreneurial skills, be technically updated, and develop resilience.