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Programming is the next most important skill for students preparing for the next generation work environment. Innovative apps have made it easier to learn programming as young as 7 years to learn the language. Get the best python homework help online to free some hours for your kids to learn to program.
While the internet has numerous apps that you can use to learn to program, not all apps are worth downloading. Some are too complicated to use, while others do not capture features that would make learning possible. So, what should you look for when choosing a programming app?
The complexity of the Application
The level of complexity will depend on the students taking the programming class. When dealing with kids in lower grades, insist on an app with simple interfaces and an instinctive operation mode. Students at advanced levels require more functionality than aesthetics. The learning stage also determines whether you will pick an advanced app or the ordinary programming app.
Type of Application
Applications come in multiple types, including web, mobile, and embedded varieties. Web applications allow you to use computers when learning. Mobile applications are exclusive to the mobile phone. An embedded firmware runs in a chip and can be transferred from one device to the other. Choose an app depending on the gadgets available at your disposal.
Scalability
How possible is it to scale your lessons? Some apps are only meant for a particular class. As a result, the app cannot serve advanced learners or those below the class. It means that a student may have to look for new apps at a certain point because he has hit the limit on the apps’ modules. An open app works better because a student will graduate based on the content already covered.
Advancement in Learning Features
How advanced is learning language based on the skills expected in the market today? These features depend on the developing company and the version of the app. Experienced companies have the capability to developing the most modern apps. Further, the latest version captures the most advanced features.
Other factors like cost and student’s preference also determine the best app to learn to program. You might have to test a few apps before settling on the best. Again, the best app for kids might not be the best for high school or college students.
Here are the best apps to learn to program.
Gamestar Mechanic
The app is designed for children between 7-14 years. It teaches children at this age to design and develop their own video games. If you have a student who loves quest games, this is the app to install. The quests help the student to get to advanced levels of programming. The app also integrates critical thinking, making the screen time worthwhile. Your child will also sharpen his critical thinking skills. It costs $2 per student and is considered among the best programming apps.
Scratch
Scratch comes from MIT and is a collaboration between students and their teachers. It is a pioneer in programming for students between 8-16 years. It was originally designed for download but is not used online. It uses a brick interface that students use to ignite sprites. Depending on the type of brick used, you will play sounds, trigger loops, and ignite engagements. It is an easy and self-learning app for children of any age.
Tynker
The app is free with a free upgrade interface. You can already count it among the best programming apps to use. It features some of the most basic programming lessons. It is self-paced and simplified such that students will not require an instructor.
Move the Turtle
The app is built on iOS and will, therefore, only work on iPad and iPhone. While it is an app for learning programming, it operates like a game. The main character is the Logo turtle that taught computers at their advent stage. The level of difficulty grows, calling for more strategic commands. The turtle will graduate with each stage, drawing a line and making a distinct sound. The child also has a free mode to decide where the turtle goes.
Hopscotch
Hopscotch is another version of Tynker and Scratch but only works on iOS devices. You have to drag and drop the bricks as you build your structure. It is the perfect tool to begin teaching children about programming. You do not need any programming experience to teach the children to use the app.
Cargo Bot
The app is built for iOS devices and will teach children the basics of programming. However, it is a bit complex, helping to instill critical thinking in the learners. It offers the first introduction to text-based coding.
CodeGym
If you are targeting Java development, this is the app to choose from. It offers short classes that you can complete during a break or commute session. It also comes with support materials in the form of tutorials from the developer. It has numerous assignments to test your skills that are instantly verified.
Programming Hub
It is the largest learning platform for android based apps. You have more than 17 programming languages on offer. With an offline mode, you do not have to depend on internet availability to learn. The content is excellently structured to make learning easier and enjoyable.
Encode
The platform is available for beginner learners to take on three languages, HTML, JAVA, and Python. The design helps you move from beginner to advanced development without going to any class or leaving the app interface. The app is fully customizable and integrates voice learning.
Enki
The platform fits people without any programming background. It offers a wide range of courses in fintech, marketing, and programming development. It is also an incredibly intuitive app for learning programming.
Many other apps are available for learning programming. Evaluate the user interface and ease of learning when choosing an app. At the end of the day, the app must help you to learn your desired programming language.
Thank you for reading!
