As a boy, I remember the insistence of my parents that I had to learn English. Even they, without speaking, knew the importance of adding the language to the toolbox one has for life. Speaking English opens the doors in the labor world, so it has become a “desirable” ability to become a requirement in the last time.But the world has been digitized and today does not reach just with it. So in this note, I want to tell you what is important that we can give children the possibility of empowering their future through technology.In the digital age, the plus of the moment, this added value that empowers us, even more than English to open our wings to the world, is programming. A new language, but with a very different receiver. Being able to talk to the computer, interpret it and get you to understand, it has become a key ability to grow anyone.
Computational thinking as an educational weapon
But beyond the ability to write code, the need to develop a “computational thinking” breaks with all paradigms. We are part of a digitized world where we do not understand how technology works around us limits us to being simple consumers of it.This is why it is important that we can incorporate fundamental concepts of programming in the way we solve our daily problems. It is about being able to “think” as a programmer, without needing to be today.Finding solutions through an orderly logical process, identifying sequences and instructions that can be performed by a human or computer is extremely useful both personally and professionally. This way of thinking becomes the real key in the digital world, leaving aside any of our tastes or preferences. This is not what we do, but how we can incorporate critical and logical thinking into our decision making.In particular, there are 3 points by which computational thinking becomes something critical in the development of all the rest of our abilities:- Split a big problem into simpler tasks: “Romper” a complex problem in simpler tasks that together allow to reach the solution.
- Identify repeat patterns and actions: Be able to find similarities between problems to solve, differentiating those that can be solved together and those that need greater attention.
- Create algorithms: Although the word seems complicated, an algorithm is no more than a series of steps to follow to solve a problem. Whether with code or a simple flow chart, the value is in the use of logic to build instructions that allow you to reach a solution.
As summer, nothing of all the previous is tied to a specific profession or area. It is not about tastes, but having tools to think about the solution of problems. Tools that should not be missing any child.Computational thinking allows children to see otherwise the world around them. Not only do they consume technology, but they understand how it works. Along with programming, this allows you to develop your most creative side by creating animated graphics, video games or websites. Children not only play but also create employing logic and mathematics, equivocating and experimenting in the process.Technology is power; computational thinking and programming, the key to using it.With post- pandemic digital transformation, not only have changed many aspects in which we relate to technology, but also the skills needed to grow and develop. One question that resonated a lot in my head over the last few years is: what would I have been from me today if, since I was a child, instead of learning, English had learned programming? Or both?We are faced with the opportunity to provide new generations of children with the key tools to develop their potential and empower them to become technology creators.Programming for children
Convert screen time in hours of teaching and productivity is key to this paradigm shift. Instead of playing video games, we'll teach them how to create; instead of keeping mobile apps that start creating.It is essential that children have fun while learning. In this sense, providing programming knowledge to children from 5 to 18, while using their favorite games (such as the Minecraft educational version, Roblox or Scratch), allows them to see technology not only as a recreation tool, but also as growth, development and creation. In fact, this is one of the reasons why they created programming academies for children like Crack The Code.As professionals, we must boost the use of technology and the development of digital skills, with special emphasis on future generations. If a child does not know how to develop technology, he will not have the same amount of opportunities as a child who knows how to do it. Countries, companies and schools are not doing enough to solve the search gap, since few educational institutions have a programming approach. We want our children to be aware of developing technology and understanding how it works; to give you responsible use.A key to technological progress in the region
We must think what we want for our region, for our countries. Latin American innovation has no limits. Employers such as Nubank, Free Market, Rappi and Globant are just an example of the potential and talent that exist in the region.My invitation is to understand the need to develop computational thinking and programming in children, teaching it as if it were mathematics or English. Let's leave the stereotype we have of the programmers and realize that the digital age is already here.Technology is a functional part of all areas of our lives, and it is necessary to empower us in its use starting with the youngest. We know Latin America in a region that can compete, create and export our own technology!Do you want to validate this article?
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tomas moreno
My name is Tomas Moreno and I am passionate about technological innovation, finance and education.
I specialize in digital product management. Entusiasta de cripto y blockchain, but for technology than for investment. I love everything related to behavioral economics and circular economy. Boot but fan of the selection. Happiness is sharing a good mate
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