Classroom Cloud
At my school, we’re required to use Code.org, and everything else is blocked by Classroom.cloud. While I understand the intention is to help us stay focused, I genuinely believe that Scratch (scratch.mit.edu) offers a much better platform. It allows for greater creative expression and makes experimentation so much simpler. So, why is it being restricted?
Plus, in a real programming language, you can’t just type ‘score a point’ and expect it to function!
It’s understandable to feel frustrated when you’re limited to just one platform like Code.org, especially when there are other tools like Scratch that offer more creative freedom. Scratch is a fantastic way to learn programming concepts through fun and interactive projects, and it allows for more experimentation.
The reason schools might opt for a platform like Code.org could be to maintain a structured learning environment where students can focus on specific coding concepts without the distractions or complexities of a more open-ended platform. However, it’s important for educators to recognize that creativity is a crucial part of the learning process too, and platforms like Scratch can foster that.
As for your point about actual programming languages, you’re absolutely right! In real-world coding, you need to understand the syntax and logic behind the code to get it to work properly, which is why using tools like Scratch and Code.org can be so beneficial—they introduce the fundamental concepts in a more accessible way. Maybe it would be worth bringing up the idea of incorporating Scratch into your curriculum to your teachers or school administrators. They might consider it as a supplemental tool to enhance creativity alongside structured learning!