KidsRuby
By Erin Brereton,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Download gives good background on coding, so-so instruction.
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What’s It About?
The Ruby programming language was created in 1995 in Japan by developer Yukihiro Matsumoto. The KIDSRUBY site features an application that kids can download and use to learn about this simplified coding system -- and programming in general. The application also lets them test out the programming examples included in the text; they just need to key them into the browser and click \"Run\" to view the result.
Is It Any Good?
KidsRuby gives some good background on programming and lets kids play and create using a fairly easy-to-understand coding language. Unfortunately, there's a lot of text to wade through, which might cause kids to quickly lose interest. Although the information doesn't offer a ton of programming instruction and can sometimes be a little unclear, KidsRuby can serve as a good jumping off point to help kids learn what programming is -- and try their hand at using it.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about breaking down complex procedures, like programming, to complete them. How can you divide a project into a series of tasks to make it easier?
What other actions can be automated or structured like programming code? Can you see any connections between writing code and other tasks?
Ask your kids if any of the instructions weren't clear and if trying out the code helped. How can testing things you're learning help you understand them?
Website Details
- Subjects: Language & Reading: following directions, reading comprehension, Math: functions, sequences
- Skills: Thinking & Reasoning: applying information, strategy, Tech Skills: digital creation, using and applying technology
- Genre: Educational
- Topics: STEM
- Pricing structure: Free
- Last updated: November 5, 2015
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