Coding is slowly becoming a sought-after skill in the digital world. As society progresses with more technological innovations, many people are learning how to code and create programs. In school, educators often use coding platforms to teach students the basics of programming.

One of the most popular platforms is Scratch. Scratch is a widely available online platform that teaches beginners how to build a program step-by-step. But what is it about Scratch that both teachers and students love?

What is Scratch coding?

Developed by the Lifelong Kindergarten Group, Scratch is a programming language and online platform specially designed for young learners. It is a simple and fun way of learning how to code for beginners!

Scratch helps users learn how to make a visual interface using the proper codes. On the platform, users can create their own games and animations. Digital and visual stories can also be created using Scratch. The type of project will depend on the user’s imagination and creativity. Users can begin from a blank page. They can also start from another user’s design and add their own touch, called a remix.

The platform is widely available for users all around the world. It uses block-based tools for beginners to learn how to build codes. Built codes will then form an algorithm that creates the project.

Who can use Scratch?

Although primarily designed for young learners 8 to 16 years old, Scratch can be used by everyone! Its straightforward instructions can easily guide beginners, young and old. Aside from beginners, experienced programmers also use Scratch to create simple visual animations.

In an educational setting, teachers use Scratch to introduce students to the basics of block-based tools for coding. With the use of Scratch, students can develop problem-solving abilities and computational ways of thinking. They can use their creativity to produce different visual outputs that they can enjoy.

What is the best thing about Scratch? It is free to use! Scratch is available in over 200 countries and has different versions in 70 languages.

Why do students and teachers love Scratch?

Students love Scratch because it allows them to apply their imagination and ideas in creative outputs. Even though Scratch is designed for young learners, it can be used by all ages and at all school levels. Using the platform teaches students how to design and code programs logically and creatively.

Teachers also enjoy using Scratch because it inspires students’ work. With the help of this online platform, teachers educate students on the basics of coding projects and guide them through building their first program. It is an amazing educational tool because students are taught how to be creative while following logical steps to build their output.

Scratch is usually taught in a collaborative environment where students can exchange ideas for their projects. Teachers can also focus on students exclusively if the project requires an individual output. Scratch can be used in all fields of study including science, mathematics, history, language, arts, and music.

Pros and Cons of Using Scratch

Although it is a great way to begin coding, Scratch also has its disadvantages. Here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons of this platform.

Pros

• Scratch is one of the best beginner tools to learn how to code. It is also a wonderful stepping stone in entering the world of programming. It provides the foundations of block-based tools to progress to a higher level of programming.
• It is user-friendly, allowing people of all ages to build creative projects like digital stories, interactive animations, and games. It is also easy to modify projects with a simple click of a button.
• Scratch helps build life skills that are important in the modern world. These life skills include teamwork, communication, creativity, analytical thinking, and problem-solving.
• The platform can be used for creating interactive animations for all subject areas including math, science, arts, and business.
• One of the best things about Scratch is that it is free to use and is available in many languages to cater to users all over the world.

Cons

• One disadvantage of Scratch is that it can be difficult to monitor. Especially in group classes, teachers will not be able to monitor each student’s project until the final output.
• Another of the cons of using Scratch is the access it provides to everyone’s work. Users can easily take credit for other people’s work.
• Scratch does not teach specific coding or programming languages. It only lays down the foundations of how codes are built to create a project.

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The Bottom Line

Learning how to code has become an essential skill that is useful in any industry. Coding not only teaches technical skills. It also helps build life skills such as problem-solving abilities and collaboration with others. Both teachers and students love Scratch because it can help them transform their imaginative ideas into creative outputs.