Learning to program is extremely useful and valuable these days, for kids and adults alike. The first step is always tricky, but the Web offers multiple resources covering all levels, and we recently recommended some of the most relevant platforms. Now it’s time to mention a new campaign by Code.org, which uses characters from the Star Wars saga as an introduction to Blockly and JavaScript.
Why Learning to Code Matters
The lack of programmers in the computing world is no exaggeration. We have previously commented that it is estimated a difference in demand of one programmer for every three jobs available over the next ten years. Companies are doing everything possible, and in several cases their strategies include moving these positions to other countries. Even if the programmer does not end up working for a high-profile company, there is always the possibility of carrying out personal projects, like games, mobile apps, online services, and so on. The problem is that the youngest do not have the exposure to code they should. Waiting for traditional institutions makes no sense, therefore, we must turn to the Web.
Code.org and the Star Wars Campaign
One of the many platforms at our disposal is Code.org, known among other things for its Hour of Code campaign, and the latest edition incorporates none other than Rey, Leia, BB-8 and R2-D2. Lucasfilm and Disney decided to lend these characters, to which was also added a donation of one hundred thousand dollars to help expand the reach of Code.org. As we advance through the exercises, we will see several videos of people related to this campaign, among which we highlight Kathleen Kennedy, who holds the position of president at Lucasfilm, and is also a producer along with J.J. Abrams and Bryan Burk on The Force Awakens.
The Tutorials
The first tutorial, based on block programming, is still in development, but it will target children aged 6 to 10, and will have support for multiple platforms. What we can do now is enter the JavaScript tutorial, recommended for children 11 and up. Each exercise is carried out directly in the browser, and although it only supports the English language, it is very easy to follow. The sounds of BB-8 and R2-D2 combined with the official soundtrack give a special touch to this Hour of Code inspired by Star Wars, and it definitely deserves our attention.
