Coding in K-5 Classrooms

Classrooms and school libraries across the country are steadily creating makerspaces to integrate steam concepts into curriculum. According to School Library Journal’s 2019 technology survey, coding is at the forefront of this makerspace renaissance, working to give students the edge in our computer-based job market. However, for many learners, this education does not begin until middle or high school. Research demonstrates that this late start is a missed opportunity, and proponents argue that coding education should start alongside reading, writing, and early math concepts. Edutopia (2015) calls coding “a new type of literacy,” offering both a new language and strengthening necessary problem-solving skills for the future. The following resources can help you integrate coding into your K-5 classroom.