Five months in - CoderDojo Galway
Written by Lisa | 06.13.12
EMC23 - Web Development Blog
We’ll admit it. We’re hooked :)
The reception has been warm, from parents and kids alike. We’re keeping the HTML sessions in NUIG going throughout the summer. For specific information, visit CoderDojo.com or @coderdojogalway.
The open format (aka we wing it) sessions seem to be working out well. Participants are free to drop in anytime between 12 and 3pm.
The group has developed quite naturally. The non-structured model that is the coder dojo learning environment enables the kids to pursue their specific interests. And our spontaneous presentations serve to support and focus them, when we introduce a new technique, or tool to experiment with, or when we discuss programming theory using pseudo code.
The social aspect is blossoming too, as we all get to know each other. The new arrivals are taught the basics by their peers, which is a rewarding learning experience for everyone involved.
Game development is always at the center of what we’re doing, because, let’s face it, games are the most fun :) And, developing a game involves so many different elements needing to come together.
We began with basic HTML lead by Rob, as seen on the CoderDojo Kata. Some kids’ main interests lie in developing complex storylines and maze-like plot paths. Others are more interested in the aesthetic experience, adding colours, images, creating graphics and video, and using javascript to add animation and time-based events. Some kids are most into coding, both the learning of programing languages, and software design.
The kids can focus on the areas that interest them and contribute to the larger-scale collaborative project (we call it the Multiverse or 46. It's built on our JiGS Joomla Game Engine, but that's another blog). They glean a lot from the surrounding activities, and can discover new interests and develop new skills by interacting with their peers.
From a developer’s perspective, I’m absolutely delighted with the fresh knowledge and inspiration that I've gained by mentoring.
