COBAL, Python, FORTRAN, Java. If these sound like they’re derived from a foreign language, it’s because they are all languages unto themselves. They’re all computer coding languages, and thanks to Chris Nienaber and some other technology enthusiasts, Humboldt and area youth have a chance to learn coding as a part of Coder Dojo. Chris Nienaber has spent many years working in the world of computers as part of the technology team for the Horizon School Division. 

Coder Dojo is a world-wide network of volunteers who lead programming clubs for young people. The non-profit organization caters to tech-minded youth from ten to seventeen years of age. Visitors to the Dojo can learn to write code, build a website, create an app or game, and meet others with similar interests. 

Nienaber was in attendance at the City Wide Registration Night delivering information about the new endeavour and signing up the first participants in Humboldt. While this is new to Humboldt, it is certainly not the first of its kind says Nienaber. 

“Coder Dojo is a non-profit foundation that was created in Ireland. There are about 1,900 verified dojos in 93 different countries, and there are new ones starting every day.”

Even those who have had no previous experience with coding will find an easy entry point with the program. The beginner languages can lead to increasingly complex coding platforms.

“We’re going to start programming in a language called Scratch and potentially in Microsoft Basic. One is a text-based language and one is an object-oriented language. Kids will be able to move figures on a screen and learn about mechanical programming as well.”

Currently in rural Saskatchewan, there are few high school programs that introduce students to the world of computer coding. As programming is a work-world skill that is increasingly in demand, organizations like Coder Dojo fill in a gap. Literature from Coder Dojo suggests that, like learning any language, it’s both better and easier to learn these skills early. Lest parents be concerned that programs like Coder Dojo add more screen time to children’s lives, the outcome is far more than conquering a level in a video game.

“It would help to get kids a foundation in programming. They’d be able to program websites or program apps for the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.”

Humboldt Coder Dojo kicks off on Monday, September 16 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the Humboldt Collegiate Computer Lab. To find out more or to connect with Coder Dojo in Humboldt, find them at their Facebook site: www.facebook.com/HumboldtCoderDojo .