Empowering STEM Educators: Bringing Real-World Coding to the Classroom
- Mauricio Murillo
- Apr 6
- 3 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Elementary STEM educators face an exciting yet challenging task—preparing young students with the foundational skills they need for the future. Block-based coding is a great starting point, but how do we transition students to real-world programming languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript?
That’s exactly what Allison Pedrick, Director of Education and Partner Success at EdTech Global, tackles in her webinar video lesson, Breaking Free from Block Coding. With a background in curriculum development and a passion for equipping educators, Allison shared valuable strategies to help teachers integrate text-based coding into their classrooms.
BSD Education’s Mission
BSD Education is dedicated to bridging the gap between traditional education and the digital skills students need in today’s workforce. Their mission is simple: empower teachers with the tools and confidence to bring real-world coding into their classrooms—without requiring them to be tech experts themselves.
Key Takeaways For Coding to the Classroom
1. Making the Shift from Block Coding to Text-Based Coding
Block coding builds confidence, but students often want to do more. Allison emphasized the importance of introducing HTML and CSS early, allowing students to see real-time results and create their own websites, games, and projects.
2. Strategies for Seamless Integration
Teachers don’t need to reinvent their curriculum to introduce text-based coding. Allison shared practical approaches such as guided projects, scaffolded exercises, and leveraging BSD Education’s step-by-step learning platform.
3. Three Essential Strategies for Teaching Real-World Coding
Allison outlines three key strategies to ensure a smooth transition from block coding to text-based programming:
Strategy 1: Start Live Coding With Students – Rather than relying solely on pre-recorded lessons or static slides, live coding helps students see the problem-solving process in real-time. As teachers type out code, they can talk through common errors, debugging techniques, and logical thinking, making coding more approachable and engaging for students.
Strategy 2: Leverage Syntax Learning Resources – Learning syntax can be a challenge for students transitioning from block coding. Providing syntax reference guides, interactive coding platforms, and auto-complete tools helps reduce frustration and allows students to focus on the logic behind their code rather than getting stuck on minor errors.
Strategy 3: Set an Hour to Allow Students to Tinker, Play, and Explore to Create – Let students build meaningful projects like personal websites or simple games. This keeps engagement high and helps them see the real-world applications of coding.
4. Why Real-World Coding Matters
By giving students hands-on experience with industry-relevant coding languages, educators help bridge the gap between school and career readiness. The earlier students see the practical applications of coding, the more engaged and motivated they become.
For a deeper dive into these strategies, click below to access the full webinar featuring Allison Pedrick.
Whether you’re new to coding or looking to enhance your STEM curriculum, BSD Education provides the resources to support you every step of the way.
Ready to bring real-world coding into your classroom? Explore BSD Education’s offerings today.
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