Coding for Kids
Regarding online coding programs for kids, Tynker and Code.org are two of the most popular platforms. Both platforms offer a range of coding courses and tools designed to make learning to code accessible and fun for children. However, some significant differences between Tynker and Code.org make them better suited to different types of learners. In this article, we’ll compare Tynker and Code.org side-by-side, focusing on their significant features, curriculum, accessibility, and final recommendation.
Tynker overview:
Tynker is an online coding platform that offers a comprehensive curriculum covering various subjects, such as Python, JavaScript, Game Design, AI/ML, and Minecraft Modding. Tynker’s courses are immersive and user-friendly, with block coding making it easy for young learners to create working projects and set a solid foundation for later skills development. The platform’s vast collection of coding activities is curated based on feedback from millions of children, ensuring that the content is relevant and keeps kids engaged. Tynker is an ideal platform for self-paced learning, allowing children to learn at their own pace and level based on their interests. Moreover, Tynker provides various tools and resources, such as step-by-step coding courses, projects, and games.
Code.org overview:
Code.org is a non-profit organization aiming to increase computer science education access in schools. The platform offers free coding courses, from beginner to advanced levels, and is designed to make coding accessible to students of all backgrounds. Code.org’s curriculum is based on the philosophy that students learn best by doing, with a focus on hands-on learning and problem-solving. The platform’s courses are designed to build computational thinking skills, emphasizing programming fundamentals, such as loops, conditionals, and functions.
Code.org vs. Tynker Curriculum differences:
Tynker offers over 1,600 contact hours for grades K-12, with its curriculum standing out as more in-depth and comprehensive. While Code.org’s curriculum is mainly based on solving coding puzzles, similar to their Hour of Code, Tynker’s curriculum is designed to be age- and experience-level appropriate. Each lesson includes concept introductions, warm-ups, unplugged activities, hands-on tutorials, coding puzzles, and formative quizzes. In contrast, Code.org’s curriculum can be completed quickly, and some teachers need more depth and creativity. Tynker’s focus on creativity sets it apart from Code.org, with each lesson requiring students to demonstrate their learning by building a coding project and collaborating with other students. Furthermore, Tynker has a comprehensive assessment framework that considers creativity, knowledge of vocabulary, and the ability to apply concepts, which is missing from Code.org’s curriculum.
Detailed Feature Comparison:
| Tynker | Code.org | |
| Grade Levels | Pre K-12+ | Pre K-12+ |
| Computer Science Curriculum | 1600+ hours with 4000+ learning modules | Around 100-200 hours of content for K-12 |
| Mobile Apps | Tynker Junior (Picture based coding)Tynker (Block-based coding)Mod Creator for Minecraft (Block-based Minecraft coding) | NO |
| Accessibility for non-CS teachers | Yes, can be trained via onboarding and community | |
| Lesson materials for teachers | Thousands of grade-specific and self-paced K-12 coding curriculum materialsAutomated gradebook and assessments for teachers to track mastery progressEasy classroom management tools to create classrooms, import students, and track metricsInstant access to quizzes, DIY projects, and puzzle solutionsCCSS, CSTA, and ISTE framework inclusion | Provides printable teacher guides per lesson with information on how to teach the lesson |
| Single Sign On | Google, Clever, Microsoft Azure | Google, Facebook, Microsoft |
| LMS Integrations and more | Google Classroom, Apple Schoolwork, Clever, CSV Bulk upload, Canvas LTI | |
| Lesson Authoring Tools | Create lessons with voice over | |
| Training and Personal Development | 5-day 40 hour Educator training curriculumWeekly webinars and free trainingBlue Ribbon Educator program | 5-day workshopsRegional sessions Virtual Sessions |
| Compliant with privacy laws | COPPA, FERPA, SOPIPA, Students Privacy Pledge, CA DPA, GDPR | N/A since they are non-profit |
| Alignment with Standards | Common Core Math, Common Core ELA, ISTE, CSTA, California CS Standards, National Curriculum UK | Yes |
| Support | Forum and communityTwitter and Facebook24-Hour Email SupportLive Chat (coming soon) | Community only |
| Remote Communication Features for Distanced Classrooms | Remote/virtual classroomsVirtual lesson assignment and progress monitoringClassroom streaming to broadcast tips, answer questions one-on-one or to the whole classRemote project collaboration with groups of kidsRole-based dashboards for district administrators, teachers, students, and parentsCo-teaching ability with specific permissions | Provides a modifications note with instructions to send parents emails, skip lessons that are not appropriate for a physical setting and hints to modify activities, It is up to the teacher to execute these. |
School Checklist Comparison:
| Tynker | Code.org | |
| Curriculum | ✅ | ✅ |
| Virtual Classroom | ✅ | ✅ |
| Desktop App | ✅ | |
| Tablet/Mobile App | ✅ | ⛔ |
| Teacher Accounts | ✅ | ✅ |
| Student Accounts | ✅ | ✅ |
| Parent Accounts | ✅ | ⛔ |
| Administrator Accounts | ✅ | |
| Classroom Live Broadcasting | ✅ | ⛔ |
| Gradebook View | ✅ | ✅ |
| Automated Assignments | ✅ | ✅ |
| Google Classroom Integration | ✅ | ✅ |
| Clever Integration | ✅ | ✅ |
| ClassLink Integration | ✅ | ⛔ |
| Contractual Data Privacy Protection | ✅ | N/A |
| Premium Support | ✅ | ⛔ |
Which should you choose for your school?
When it comes to choosing the right coding platform for your school, there are several factors that you need to consider. While Code.org is an excellent option for those just starting, it may provide only some of the features you need to give your students the best possible coding experience. On the other hand, Tynker offers a more comprehensive curriculum with a range of courses designed to meet the needs of students at all levels.
One of the most significant advantages of Code.org is that it is free; however, the free version of Code.org only provides a primary curriculum that may need to be more to engage and challenge your students fully. Tynker, on the other hand, offers a more in-depth curriculum with a range of courses that cover various topics, from basic programming concepts to more advanced topics like game design and robotics.
The choice between Code.org and Tynker will depend on your school’s specific needs and budget. While Code.org may be a good option for schools just starting, those looking for a more comprehensive curriculum and a better learning experience may find that Tynker is the better choice. Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose a platform that will engage and challenge your students and help them develop the skills they need to succeed in the digital age.
Conclusion:
With numerous coding platforms available for schools, it can be challenging to choose the right one. However, Tynker stands out as the ideal coding platform for schools. Code.org is suitable only for beginners. Tynker is the perfect coding platform for schools due to its comprehensive curriculum, user-friendly tools, comprehensive assessment framework, and seamless integration with various platforms. With Tynker, students can gain the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in today’s digital age. If your school is looking for a premium offering, Tynker is the place for you.
