Coding JavaScript Apps

In January, I introduced a course on making Apps with JavaScript at my local primary school. I chose Bitsbox, an interactive programming environment which allows children to create Apps that run on mobiles and tablets.

Bitsbox launched a Kickstarter campaign, which I was more than happy to back.

Bitsbox is aimed at primary school children, but can be used by anyone with some knowledge of JavaScript. Continue reading “Coding JavaScript Apps”

HTML for kids

HTMLLast week I started a course on HTML for Year 5 and Year 6 school children.  The children were as enthusiastic as ever, so expectations were high. We had a tricky start learning about tags – especially remembering to close them! I used Mozilla Webmaker Tools for this, and although  I think it worked well, this week I shall be adding colour to the mix with some CSS to make it a bit more exciting.

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Blockly – visual programming editor

I met up with John Fones of Clevedon School last week and while discussing the coming up CAS SW (Bristol) Hub meeting, Blockly came up in the conversation. Blockly is a visual programming editor for educators, parents and children. The editor is like Scratch which allows to snap blocks together in a logical order. The project is still under development but there a some sample applications to play with. I had a go with at the maze, which I found great for teaching conditionals.

Continue reading “Blockly – visual programming editor”