Image 3: Benefits of Programming
Computer programming education is not just about learning how to program at a young age, in fact, it teaches students multiple skills that are foundational to their future no matter what field of study they pursue. Teaching elementary school students to program is the best way to build their computational skills – which are a set of thinking skills, habits, and approaches that are integral to solving complex problems – because programming involves concepts such as iteration, debugging, and remixing, which can help them gain an advantage in thinking, processing, and communicating at an early age. Programming also teaches students problem-solving and critical thinking skills. It shows them how to create, and not simply use, new technologies to solve problems and is fundamental knowledge that is needed to prepare students for the 21st century regardless of their ultimate field of study or occupation.