The future of software engineering looks so bright as technology experts across the globe are starting to recognize an increasingly urgent need for young people to start careers in programming.
With experienced software developers earning up to £70,000 or more, it’s clear that becoming an expert in this field opens doors to a range of successful career pathways.
So, how should we get started? Read on to find out more about why it’s so important to teach children how to code.
The Future of Software Engineering: What does the Future Involve for Software Development?
In real terms, the global demand for people with top-level programming skills is greater than the supply of qualified employees.
Throughout the next few years, we should expect to see even more vacancies in technology becoming available.
Why is computer education important for young children?
Through learning with technology, children are empowered to become confident problem-solvers, showing great initiative.
An exclusive study by global technology experts OKdo revealed some of the broader benefits of computer science lessons, according to teachers at selected schools.
Their study found that:
- Over 67% of teachers agreed that coding improved mathematics, in primary and secondary.
- In problem-solving ability, 86% of primary teachers saw improvements.
- 54% of secondary school teachers agreed that coding improved creative thinking.
Above all, 96% of teachers surveyed by OKdo believe that lessons in computer science help to improve other hard and soft skills.
In the classroom, children who learn how to code can then transfer their new skills to design or create something.
From digital artwork to remote-controlled robots, the practical possibilities of coding in an educational setting keep children engaged and eager to learn.
Careers in tech: Common misconceptions
To earn a place at one of the best universities for computer science in the country, it’s not essential for prospective students to know everything about computing.
University-level programming courses often require applicants to have mathematical qualifications. This is because common stereotypes suggest that you might need the natural mathematical ability to be able to learn how to code.
However, researchers have discovered that people with a natural ability for language learning found it easier to learn Python, a popular coding language, than those with stronger mathematical skills. So, if anyone can learn how to code, why should we teach it to children in schools?
The bottom line
Introducing children to basic programming concepts from an early age doesn’t need to involve complicated equations on computers.
Through interactive activities and specialized single-board computers, children use natural problem-solving abilities and work as a team to find solutions.
In turn, learning to code prepares children to tackle more complex problems with an enthusiastic, motivated approach.
Even if a young person doesn’t have a career in tech as their long-term goal, the skills developed through coding are invaluable to a wide range of tasks presented in any workplace.