Palawan Hope Christian School (PHCS) has introduced block-based coding lessons into the curriculum for students in grades 3 to 6 to integrate digital skills into education and address the requirements of a technology-driven world.
PHCS Principal Ms. Nanette G. Heredero emphasized that incorporating coding into the curriculum is essential for enabling students to understand and create technology while fostering critical thinking and innovation, as it has become a foundational skill applicable across various fields.
“By teaching coding, we’re giving our learners the tools they need to not only understand technology but to create it. This empowers them to think critically and innovatively- skills that are essential in today’s job market,” she added.
The program, focused on block-based coding to engage younger learners, aims to help students move beyond using apps to creating their own by introducing coding terminologies and guiding them in designing projects like games, interactive stories, and informational apps, as explained by Mr. Ino Lapasaran, a coding instructor from Phoenix Publishing House.
“The idea is not just for them to use apps, but to create their own-helping them understand the technology from the inside out,” he stated.
Grade-six pupil, Precious Gumabong expressed that activities like game development make learning enjoyable and memorable as pupils explore coding through interactive projects that adoptive creativity and application of knowledge.
“I’ve already tried making games through coding, and I’m excited to start working on animations. Playing games helps me learn best because it’s fun and memorable,” Gumabong shared.
To support the program, Ms. Heredero said that PHCS provides desktops and reliable internet connectivity to ensure equal access to necessary tools, while the effectiveness of the program is assessed through project-based evaluations where students demonstrate their mastery of coding concepts and practical application by developing games, websites, or apps.
Feedback from the school community highlights the perceived value of coding education, with parents acknowledging its potential benefits in helping students understand digital tools and prepare for future opportunities, while also recognizing the importance of equipping children with relevant skills despite concerns about screen time.
“It’s true that not all children may pursue a career in tech, but learning to code allows them to understand the digital tools of today and tomorrow, it’s an investment in their future,” Mrs. Lorraine G. Cu, a parent of grade-six pupil, pointed out.
On the other hand, PHCS principal, believes that the long-term benefits of coding education are immense.
“Learning coding at an early age helps develop problem- solving skills, creativity, and resilience. These skills will stay with them throughout their academic journey and beyond, in whatever career path they choose,” she noted.
