I spent many hours being instructed cursive and "penmanship". So be it - its the essential foundation to all the notes, essays, etc you do in school.
Likewise, if we want kids to have a foundation in computing, I'd advocate a computer penmanship course, probably around basic linux commands, basic networking, etc. Primary school seems too early to appreciate coding, so I'd focus more on rote learning and drilling.
Boring i know, but I think it would pay off more than learning to drag n' drop to the LEGO GUI. I'm someone who never got that foundation, and it has been a burden on my ability to work at a professional level.
I somewhat agree. I worry that a 'fashion' is developing in that it is 'cool to code' therefore all must learn it at all ages.
You make a good point that it is not necessarily the best thing to do given how young kids skills differ and you list some really essential basics that I absolutely agree should form part of the curriculum.
I'd also add that actually disassembling and rebuilding a computer or other types of electronics should be on the essential list. So many young kids (mine included) are excellent operators of their little black boxes but have no clue what's inside or how it physically works.
BUT - all kids learn to write and to read and to count. These are basic skills needed for life. Given the reality of the world, proficiency with computers is becoming equally important. It seems prudent to introduce all those things you mentioned but I think it perhaps does kids a disservice to suggest they are to young to appreciate coding.
One of my most notable memories from my early years of primary school is programming a little robotic turtle thing using a BBC Micro and had it completing mazes and drawing maps on large sheets of paper for us.
I was probably 6 or 7 years old and it was AWESOME!!! We certainly understood what we were doing and how useful it could be.
Likewise, if we want kids to have a foundation in computing, I'd advocate a computer penmanship course, probably around basic linux commands, basic networking, etc. Primary school seems too early to appreciate coding, so I'd focus more on rote learning and drilling.
Boring i know, but I think it would pay off more than learning to drag n' drop to the LEGO GUI. I'm someone who never got that foundation, and it has been a burden on my ability to work at a professional level.