Why We Recommend Block Based Coding!

Learning to code means getting familiar with a range of different programming languages, from Scratch to Python to Typescript. Becoming confident with written programming languages is essential if you want to be a professional programmer, but a lot of these languages can be tricky to learn especially for anyone who is brand new to the world of coding. 

Here at The Code Zone, we believe the most fun and accessible way to begin your coding journey is by starting with block-based coding such as Scratch. Coding with blocks works a little bit like building with Lego, you simply find the blocks you need and stick them together. Each block gives the game a different instruction so hacking our games is simply a case of finding, deleting, or editing the right blocks.

Perfect For Beginners

Coding blocks make complex coding concepts easier to understand. In Scratch, the different types of blocks are colour coded so it’s easy to tell at a glance what type of change it will make to your project. Want to change how a sprite moves? Then the dark blue motion section is where you’ll need to go!

Using Scratch blocks is as simple as clicking and dragging, which also means that our younger members get lots of practice using a computer mouse. In a world that is constantly getting more and more digital, developing strong computer literacy skills is crucial and coding with Scratch strengthens these skills.

Encouraging Creativity

Block based coding is extremely forgiving as it’s easy to break the blocks apart and stick them back together. There’s also no need to worry about typing longer sections of code or watching out for spelling mistakes as block based coding typically only requires a small amount of typing.

This means that our members get to enjoy the freedom of trying new things and learning what the blocks do through play. The beginner friendly nature of coding blocks means that our members can focus on coming up with creative new hacks and practice solving problems by breaking the blocks apart and sticking them back together in new and interesting ways.

Learning Written Languages Becomes More Accessible

Block based coding languages also allow our members to develop a solid foundation when it comes to learning key coding skills as they’ll get hands-on experience while working with an easy-to-understand interface. This makes transitioning to written programming languages, such as Python, much less intimidating as you’ll already have a strong grasp of the coding basics. 

Many members of The Code Zone community begin by working with Scratch to understand the basics of what coding is and how it works. Once they become a Scratch pro they can move on to working with MakeCode which also uses blocks but introduces more advanced concepts and language. This makes transitioning to written programming languages less intimidating as they’ll have had experience working with the concepts in an accessible format.


Ready to try block-based coding for yourself? You can book a free taster session today!

Happy coding :)