While basic learn-to-code instruction is available on such sites as Codeacademy, Udacity and Khan Academy, Google recently unveiled a mobile app game to teach beginner coders. The goal, TechCrunch.com pointed out in April, is to encourage coders to become proficient in basic and core concepts.
While basic learn-to-code instruction is available on such sites as Codeacademy, Udacity and Khan Academy, Google recently unveiled a mobile app game to teach beginner coders. The goal, TechCrunch.com pointed out in April, is to encourage coders to become proficient in basic and core concepts.
In recent years, coding has become a fun skill for some and an essential one for others. Coding classes and camps for kids are readily available, but Google Grasshopper offers an easy path for adults to try their hand at coding. Newbies can improve their digital literacy and learn to navigate software more proficiently. Plus, some will find it helpful in their careers.
Time Magazine in April said adults will enjoy Google Grasshopper because it teaches in a fun, non-classroom way but is not a kid-focused app. It addresses three aspects that often deter adults from trying coding:
— Time: Because it is available as an app on a smartphone, it is easy to do short bits while commuting, on a break, before bed or while waiting for an appointment.
— Access: No need to attend a class; just download app to a tablet or smartphone.
— Money: The app is free in the Google Play store, play.google.com.
Grasshopper’s course series starts with The Fundamentals, where users learn concepts of code and terminology. Once mastered, a user advances through additional courses, such as to learn to draw shapes with the D3 library and eventually more complex functions.
TechCrunch.com explains that Grasshopper courses are designed as a series of puzzles and quizzes gradually increasing in difficulty. Real-time feedback — acting as a sort of tutor — guides toward solving challenges.
More content is expected to be added to the Grasshopper app in the near future.