W.TEC is excited to introduce an innovative approach to teaching computer programming at select primary and secondary schools, both private and public. Our new initiative, “Scratch on Deck,” is spearheaded by Lesley Tarabina, our Curriculum Development Coordinator. This board game is designed to teach the foundations and concepts of Scratch programming through play and fun, making coding accessible and enjoyable for young learners and individuals with learning, intellectual, and developmental disabilities.
What is Scratch on Deck?
Scratch on Deck is a board game similar to popular games like Monopoly or Scrabble. It is crafted to teach coding principles and programming foundations using the Scratch programming language. The game is particularly beneficial for:
- Young Learners: Introducing coding in a fun and engaging way.
- Individuals with Learning, Intellectual, and Developmental Disabilities: Providing an inclusive educational tool.
- Learners in Rural Areas: Offering an offline solution for those without access to computers and the internet.
Testing and Feedback
We have conducted testing of Scratch on Deck at Laureate, KKPS, and Gbaja Senior School. The feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive:
- Fun and Engaging: Participants found the game to be an enjoyable way to learn coding without the need for a computer. Comments included, “Scratch on Deck is a very fun game,” and “I enjoyed the game; can there be more tasks?”
- Creative Learning: Some participants expressed a desire to create their own stories within the game, highlighting the game’s potential to foster creativity and critical thinking.
Instructor Insights
The instructors involved in the testing phase observed that Scratch on Deck significantly extends the ability to teach programming fundamentals to young learners in low-resource communities. They noted that the game effectively bridges the gap for students who may not have access to digital resources.
Positive Outcomes
An impressive 95% of participants gave positive feedback, emphasizing the game’s potential as a valuable educational tool. The combination of storytelling, task completion, and play makes Scratch on Deck a unique and powerful method for introducing coding concepts.
Looking Ahead
At W.TEC, we are committed to enhancing educational opportunities through innovative methods. Scratch on Deck represents a significant step forward in making coding education accessible to all. By integrating play and learning, we aim to inspire a new generation of programmers, regardless of their background or resources.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to roll out Scratch on Deck to more schools and communities. We are excited about the possibilities this initiative holds and look forward to seeing the impact it will have on young learners across Nigeria.
For more information about Scratch on Deck and other W.TEC initiatives, please contact us at [info@wteconline.org] or visit our website at [www.wteconline.org]. Together, we can make coding education fun, inclusive, and accessible for everyone.