A coding app has exposed thousands of pupils from disadvantaged areas to computer programming without the need of a computer or a teacher.
Tanks App, which was designed by Nelson Mandela University computing sciences student Byron Batteson for his honours project, has been used by libraries in Johannesburg to encourage pupils to do collaborative work. The app introduces pupils to coding concepts with the use of tangible tokens and image recognition, thus eliminating the need for a computer.
Thabiso Dlamini, a teacher at Kutumela Molefi Primary School, a farm school outside Bronkhorstspruit, east of Pretoria, attended the Tanks App workshop last month.
Dlamini said they also learned that they don’t necessarily require fully equipped and functional laboratories as this can be done through what is called unplugged coding which is teaching and learning of coding without computers.
“Coding is the future of this country as it encourages learners to be active participants of their learning and it also encourages deep thinking, problem solving, collaborative work, creativity and critical thinking. Learners can use these skills to meaningfully and successfully be part of a digital and information-driven world which can contribute to a rapidly changing and transforming society,” he said.
Mduduzi Hadebe, a teacher from Somelulwazi Primary School at Freedom Park in Soweto, said he attended three workshops where they were taught how to build toys through the app. “This will introduce our pupils to different career opportunities and they also learn the basics of programming from a young age,” he said.
The coding project is not only being used in schools as the City of Johannesburg (COJ) libraries have a mobile literacy programme that focuses on concepts such as gamification
Jeff Nyoka, e-learning manager at the City of Johannesburg (COJ) Library Services, said they had reached more than 3,000 pupils since they piloted the app in 2018.
“The Tanks coding game works best in libraries as it is free and informally. It allows children to play in teams and make friendship while learning coding. They don’t have to worry about data because libraries have free WiFi and donated tablets,” he said.
Prof Jean Greyling, who helped develop the app, said Tanks uses gamification to teach young learners about basic coding concepts and social issues such as ocean conservation. The app is made of 35 levels and uses puzzle pieces and a smart phone to introduce basic coding concepts such as Turtle commands, Loops, Decisions and optimisation to young learners.
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