Hundreds of kids (we call them ninjas) have returned to sharpen their digital skills at CoderDojo Brisbane this term, with the first sessions kicking off over the weekend.
There are seven locations again this term offering nine individual sessions across the libraries. CoderDojo Brisbane continues to grow in popularity, both with ninjas and their parents.
In fact, according to ninjas who attended last term’s CoderDojo Brisbane sessions, the coolest part was learning the tools to invent and/or build their own games when they grow up.
“This was my second time going into CoderDojo but on my first time I already knew advanced scratch so I hoped to learn a proper syntax to be able to take my coding to the next level,” said nine-year-old Marcelle.
Aaron and Eli both attended Chermside sessions last term and agreed the best thing was that the mentors made it a happy and cheerful environment for learning to code.
“With the knowledge and advice I got from CoderDojo, I would like to start making simple games then hopefully make a game design company one day so others can continue to enjoy games and be happy, (as well as) meeting other kids who were interested in the same things,” Aaron said.
Pierre Geldenhuys watched his seven-year-old ninja come to life at the sessions.
“There is something amazing about seeing your child light up when he figures something out. Seeing Julian struggle, persevere and figure different things out is a highlight to me,” he said.
“Clearly coding, game, app and website development are important aspects of education for the kids of today,” parent Daniela Grawert said.
“I think CoderDojo is totally on track with their casual approach to making learning enjoyable and relaxed. Coding, in fact any learning, should be fun.”
Alyson Dunlop’s eight-year-old saved all his money for years to buy a laptop for gaming.
“He has always had an interest in computers and everything tech. Seeing his mind come alive, I have never seen him happier and more eager to learn. I must admit, there were tears watching him in amongst ‘his people’,” Alyson said.
“From my point of view the content seemed way too complicated for an eight-year-old (but) I was so wrong, he grasped the information provided in a way that I never could.”
“I think for the younger generation it is very important that they are computer literate (including ability to code, develop websites) as computers will play a much higher role in their life than in their parents’ one (ours)” said parent Sandor Koce.
Part of Brisbane Marketing’s Digital Brisbane program, CoderDojo Brisbane provides a forum for school-aged children to learn how to code and ultimately boost the future digital capabilities of Brisbane residents.
Make sure you have subscribed to the CoderDojo website and are following CoderDojo Brisbane on Facebook or Twitter to receive the latest updates regarding registrations for future sessions.