Talk Python To Me #278: Teach kids Python with real programming and fun games at Code Combat
Aug 21, 2020
Nick Winter, co-founder of CodeCombat and edtech entrepreneur, shares his journey from hobbyist programmer to launching a game-based platform that teaches kids Python through play. He discusses innovative teaching methods that liken coding to language learning, the importance of kid-friendly error messages, and specific editor features that enhance the user experience. Nick also highlights the benefits of client-side execution for immersive debugging and reveals future plans for expanding educational offerings, including new products and support for other programming languages.
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From Bored Student To Hooked Coder
- Nick discovered coding in college after a rabbits-and-foxes project turned into a creative zombies twist that hooked him.
- That project led him from boredom in class to building real software and choosing Python for practical development.
Delayed Gratification Kills Early Motivation
- Teaching programming as isolated facts delays motivation and loses many learners.
- Framing coding as creative and meaningful early engages far more students than rote exercises.
First Real Product: Skritter
- Nick built Skritter, a handwriting-focused Chinese learning app, using Python and Google App Engine.
- The product became profitable and validated using practical projects to learn and start a company.