Principles of Programming: Computer programming for kids and beginners - Softcover

Joseph M Dwyer

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1492797367 ISBN 13: 9781492797364

Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, 2013

Synopsis

An introduction to computer programming for kids and beginners (and their parents!) Principles of Programming: Basic Concepts is a first programming resource for students and homeschoolers wanting an introduction to programming. The book will take you through the simplest of programs all the way through complex logic and fun programs for students.

10 easy lessons each with key concepts important to programming

26 programs to be written by the student as practice

16 advanced exercises for extra instruction and challenge

download all the code to create each program
 
This book is intended for students and homeschool children ages 9-16 who have some basic mathematics understanding and independent study skills. Each lesson takes approximately 30-60 minutes to complete. 

The concepts presented in the book center around using Small Basic as a programming language. Small Basic is a simplistic language great for learning entry level programming skills. The concepts in the book are central to programming the easiest of programs all the way through complex programming systems. Using Small Basic, combined with these basic programming concepts the beginner programmer can quickly learn to program computers and gain the basics of programming. It's a fantastic learning tool for students wanting to learn the basics of programming.

About this title

From the Author

Computer programming is a skill all children should learn. Giving kids an introduction to computer programming is a great skill regardless of whether they will ever pursue it beyond the basic concepts. Here are a few reasons why programming for kids is super beneficial:
 
1. Gain an understanding of computers and how they work
Instead of having kids spend time learning to use a computer only through video games and other activities learning basic computer programming concepts enables them to learn an important new skill.
 
2. Basic programming concepts teach logic and cause and effect
Computer programs follow exactly the rules they are programmed to do. Learning to follow an app as it is programmed is a great skill as it helps teach how to break a problem up into smaller pieces. It also has benefits throughout academics, especially mathematics and science.
 
3. Build mathematics skills through programming
Programs use mathematics heavily. Whether it is simple math like addition and subtraction, or the use of parentheses to prioritize what numbers should get processed first, these types of mathematics problems are commonly used in computer programs.
 
4. Creativity
Programming is a quite addictive. Once a child learns the basics, they often want to try to build upon this knowledge and try something new. It sparks a creativity that is not possible elsewhere.
 
5. It can be a great career
Last but not least, programming can be a great career. Programmers are in very high demand and will be for the next several decades. Learning this skill at a young age simply gives the child a leg up as they get older and are ready to learn deeper skills and prepare for the marketplace.

About the Author

Joe Dwyer has a degree in Computer Engineering from Iowa State University and has been a programmer and entrepreneur for over 15 years. He’s worked for a number of high tech companies and is currently Chief Technology Officer for Propelware, a company he started that helps automate small businesses and their use of technology. Joe and his wife Heidi reside in Minneapolis, MN and enjoy homeschooling their five children.

Edition details

• Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
• Publication date: 2013
• ISBN 10: 1492797367
• ISBN 13: 9781492797364
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 144