Unplugged or Plugged Coding

So, throughout this course and in other courses, you’ll probably come across the terms plugged and unplugged coding. They are also helpful terms for finding resources! So, what are they?

Plugged Coding:
Plugged coding involves using digital devices like computers, tablets, or coding robots to practise programming skills. Students use coding platforms, software, or apps to write and execute code, which then controls the behaviour of digital characters, animations, games, or even physical robots. This hands-on experience with real coding environments allows students to see immediate results and interactions. Plugged coding provides a direct connection to the digital world and helps learners understand how coding is applied in real software and technology.

Unplugged Coding:
Unplugged coding, on the other hand, does not involve digital devices. Instead, it focuses on teaching coding concepts through offline activities, games, worksheets and exercises. These activities often use physical objects, cards, puzzles, or drawings to represent coding instructions, sequences, and algorithms. Unplugged coding helps students build a strong foundation in programming logic without the need for computers. It encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork, as students need to plan, communicate, and execute coding instructions using tangible materials.

Both approaches have their own benefits and can be used together to provide a well-rounded coding education. Plugged coding introduces students to real programming environments, while unplugged coding emphasises understanding coding concepts and logic before diving into actual code writing.