Disclaimer: I received a FREE copy of this product through the HOMESCHOOL REVIEW CREW in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way.
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Homeschool Code Academy offers programming instruction that is designed specifically for homeschool students. Expert instruction is provided in easy to follow, self paced lessons. Students learn to code by coding along with their instructor to create different projects and games.
Python for Beginners: Learn Coding at Home is an introductory class where students can learn the basics of the Python Coding language. The course includes 158 lessons that provide hands on experience with coding projects. Each module includes video instruction, so kids can code along with the instructor. Then they are challenged to complete a project utilizing the knowledge they have gained. Solutions and support are provided for the challenges, so students are never left to figure things out on their own. The challenges provide students with the ability to see the progress they are making throughout the course.
Grade Level/Age
The recommended grade level for Python for Beginners is fifth grade and up. I find that this is a pretty accurate grade level recommendation.
How I Use It
I had my twelve year old, Carter, go through this course independently. He loves programming and I am always looking to give him more instruction in this area. Coding and programming are not my thing and he teaches me more on the subject than I can possibly teach him. I appreciate the independent aspect of this program, so he can learn from an expert and I can be really hands off with the instruction.
Carter felt that this class was very user friendly and he liked that he could go back and review lessons as needed. The syntax took him a little while to get used to, but once he did he started to enjoy taking this class. He thought the instruction was clear and engaging.
Homeschool Style
This program can be used for any homeschool style. It is wonderful for independent learning as it is self paced and all instruction is included with the lessons. Homeschool Code Academy also offers online support, so if your child gets stuck they can reach out and get the help they need.
Things to Consider
There are a few pre-requisites a student needs before starting this course. They need to know the basics of addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, decimal place value, fractions, how to find area of geometric shapes, and understand degrees in a circle, diameter and radius. In addition to these math skills, they should have basic computer knowledge, like opening and saving files, and basic typing skills.
The other thing to consider is that you have to complete the pre-requisite modules before it will let you move on. This means you can’t skip any of the videos or modules. This was a feature that my son didn’t like as he already had extensive coding knowledge and didn’t need all of the introductory videos. He pointed this out to me right away and it really took away some of his motivation to move forward with this class. I understand that the course is sequential and you need to complete one step before moving to the next, but we would have liked a little more flexibilty in this area.
Summary
Python for Beginners: Learn Coding at Home from Homeschool Code Academy is an engaging class designed specifically for homeschoolers. It is a very full and complete course with 158 lessons. Parents will like the fact that students can complete this class independently. No parental coding knowledge is needed as support is offered directly to students. While I would like to see a little more flexibility with the ability to skip some of the videos or modules, the instruction is well thought out and engaging. This class is an excellent option for parents who want to provide their students with an opportunity to learn Python coding language.
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This review is written in partnership with the Homeschool Review Crew. Check out more Python for Beginners: Learn Coding at Home reviews on the Homeschool Review Crew Blog.
