Karel Coding

Visual Introduction to Computer Programming for Complete Beginners

Karel Coding is an excellent introductory computer programming course for complete beginners. Computer programming is something that can be learned, same as reading, writing or playing a musical instrument. In fact it’s simpler than that. About 90% of computer programming  is planning, problem solving, and perseverance. Only 10% is about mastering a concrete programming language such as Python, C/C++ or Java. This course will teach you the 90%. At the end you will have acquired the mindset and skills of a successful programmer. You will be ready to learn any advanced programming language quickly.

There is a reason why pilots first learn with a flight simulator, before entering the cockpit of a real plane. For the same reason, this course uses an educational programming language called Karel the Robot. This legendary programming language is simplified Python: It uses simple English commands such as “go”, “left”, “right”, “get”, “put”, “repeat”, “if”, “while” etc. which allows students to focus on developing algorithmic and problem solving skills which are a crucial prerequisite for success in computer programming.

At the beginning of the course, students guide a robot using simple commands in English:

Later, students learn how to use loops:

Soon, students are able to write advanced programs for the robot to navigate complex mazes: