Coding Classes
Are you or your high schooler interested in learning code? These days, coding is a valuable skill that will transfer to many potential uses in the future. Whether you end up pursuing a tech career or simply building these skills for your own use, it’s a wise investment. And, it doesn’t have to be out of reach. Many coding classes for high school students are available online.
It’s also a great way to spend a summer. If you don’t have any plans so far other than hanging out around the house, learn code! It will help you broaden your intellectual horizons and even translates to logic puzzles, mathematical equations, and speaking/writing different languages. For those of you who are ready to sign up for some coding classes for high school students, this list is for you!
Top 6 Coding Classes for High School Students – 2021
1. Scratch at MIT
Online in 2021
About: Scratch is a programming language and an online community where children can program and share interactive media such as stories, games, and animation with people from all over the world. As children create with Scratch, they learn to think creatively, work collaboratively, and reason systematically. Scratch is designed and maintained by the Lifelong Kindergarten group at the MIT Media Lab.
Age: Targeted at students age 8-16 (younger students can check out Scratch Jr.)
Cost: Free
2. Code.org
Online in 2021
About: Code.org ® is a nonprofit dedicated to expanding access to computer science in schools and increasing participation by young women and students from other underrepresented groups. Our vision is that every student in every school has the opportunity to learn computer science as part of their core K-12 education.
Age: Open to students K-12th
Cost: Free
3. Kodu
Online in 2021
About: Kodu is a new visual programming language made specifically for creating games. It is designed to be accessible for children and enjoyable for anyone. The programming environment runs on the Xbox, allowing rapid design iteration using only a game controller for input.
Age: Primarily students K-12th, but open to anyone.
Cost: Free
4. CodeAcademy
Online in 2021
About: We set out to create a new, interactive way of learning —” making it engaging, flexible, and accessible for as many people as possible. Since then, we have helped millions of people worldwide unlock modern technical skills and reach their full potential through code.
Age: Open to Anyone
Cost: Free
5. Intelligent Racing
Online in 2021
About: We believe the greatest challenge for today’s STEM students and future innovators is making advances in AI technologies and programming and design skills fun to learn. Topics include machine learning, hands-on practice with robotics labs, exciting racing, and a unique opportunity to study with a Berkeley professor.
Age: Primarily grades 9-12th, but open to anyone
Cost: Reach out to us to learn about the Empowerly special for our enrolled students!
6. Inspirit AI: Live Online
Online in 2021
About: AI Scholars Live Online is a 10 session (25-hour) program that exposes high school students to fundamental AI concepts and guides them to build a socially impactful project. Taught by our team of graduate students from Stanford, MIT, and more, students receive a personalized learning experience in small groups with a student-teacher ratio of 4:1.
Age: Primarily 9-12th (middle schoolers can check out the Middle School Programs!)
Cost: approx. $900
Benefits of High School Students Taking Coding Classes
In today’s increasingly digital world, coding skills have become invaluable. High school students who choose to take coding classes gain a competitive edge and numerous advantages that extend far beyond the classroom. Coding classes offer a comprehensive introduction to programming languages, computational thinking, and problem-solving skills. By acquiring these skills at a young age, students can open doors to exciting career opportunities and gain a solid foundation for future success in technology-driven fields.
One of the key benefits of high school students taking coding classes is the development of critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Coding requires students to break down complex problems into smaller, manageable parts and develop logical solutions. These problem-solving skills are transferable to various areas of life and can foster a systematic approach to tackling challenges. Through coding classes, students learn how to think critically, analyze problems, and apply innovative thinking to find effective solutions.
Coding classes also foster creativity and innovation among high school students. Programming languages provide a canvas for students to express their creativity and develop unique projects. From building websites to creating mobile apps or designing interactive games, coding empowers students to transform their ideas into tangible digital products. By nurturing their creativity, coding classes encourage students to think outside the box, experiment with new concepts, and develop innovative solutions to real-world problems.
Furthermore, taking coding classes in high school equips students with practical skills that are in high demand in today’s job market. The demand for skilled programmers and developers continues to grow across industries. By gaining coding proficiency early on, high school students can gain a head start in pursuing careers in computer science, software engineering, web development, and more. Coding skills not only enhance employability but also provide a foundation for entrepreneurship, as students can create their own tech startups or freelancing ventures. High school students who take coding classes benefit from the development of critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, creativity, and practical skills. Coding classes empower students to become active participants in the digital age, preparing them for the challenges and opportunities of the future. By embracing coding education, high school students position themselves for success in a technology-driven world while gaining skills that can positively impact their academic, personal, and professional lives.
Conclusion
In today’s technology-driven world, learning to code in high school has become increasingly valuable. High school students who embark on a coding journey gain a multitude of benefits that extend far beyond their academic years. By learning to code, students develop crucial skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and logical reasoning. These skills are applicable to various fields, preparing students for future success in a digital society.
Learning to code in high school equips students with a competitive edge in college admissions and future career prospects. As technology continues to shape industries, employers increasingly seek individuals with coding proficiency. By starting early, high school students can gain a head start in acquiring these sought-after skills. Coding knowledge opens doors to a variety of career paths, including software development, web design, data analysis, and more. The ability to code allows students to innovate, create, and contribute meaningfully in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
Furthermore, learning to code in high school fosters creativity and encourages students to think outside the box. Coding provides a platform for students to turn their ideas into reality, whether it be building a website, designing a mobile app, or creating a game. This creative outlet not only engages students but also nurtures their problem-solving skills as they work through coding challenges. By learning to code in high school, students gain the confidence to bring their innovative visions to life while developing a valuable skill set that will serve them well throughout their academic and professional journeys.
Learning to code in high school offers a range of benefits, including the development of problem-solving skills, enhanced college and career prospects, and fostering creativity. By embracing coding at a young age, high school students set themselves up for success in a technology-driven world. They gain the tools necessary to navigate a digitally connected society and become active contributors to technological advancements and innovation. If you would like guidance from an expert counselor, we can help you through this process. From discussing all your options to discovering interests, it’s good to have Empowerly by your side. Whatever your needs are in ideal coding classes for high school students, there should be options. Empower yourself to find them.