Is Coding a Basic Life Skill and Essential for the Future?

Coding is the process of writing or creating instructions for computers to follow using programming languages. It’s used to program technologies used every day like websites, apps, and other computer software. People are becoming more exposed not only to more gadgets powered by code, but the modern world is becoming more reliant on the internet and code-powered software, making computer literacy essential.

Learning, or at least understanding the basics of how to code will come in handy not only if you pursue a degree in software development or computer engineering, but also as a skill to have in your toolbox. Coding is a skill that can be taught and picked up by kids as young as 5 years old, and with technological advancements, teaching kids basic coding hasn’t been easier. Here are a few other reasons coding is a basic life skill and essential for the future. 

Coding Helps With Problem-Solving

Learning to code helps you approach problems logically since it’s essentially giving a computer a task to accomplish based on a series of steps you’ve created. These instructions can range from simple to complex, where more complex tasks or codes are a collection of simpler codes just put together. Knowing the basics of coding helps you break down a big problem into smaller pieces and be able to analyze or look at things from a different perspective.

Demand and Earning Potential for Coding-Related Jobs

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that careers in computer and information technology will grow by 11% between 2019 and 2029, faster than the 4% average projected growth rate for other occupations. Some job opportunities that use coding include website and software developers, software engineers, data analysts, database and system administrators, and data scientists. According to the BLS, in 2019, the average median salary for coding and programming-related professions was $39,810.

While these jobs may increase in demand over the next few years, some skills needed for these jobs include a mastery of front-end and back-end programming languages, tools, and structures, as well as strong analytical ability, and problem-solving skills.

Practical Application

Most people have the impression that coding or learning to code comes in handy for technical professions, but there are other practical applications of coding knowledge as well. For instance, some projects may involve working with a team or coordinating with other developers, experience from working on these projects may translate into better teamwork or dynamics with others in the future. Coding also entails having keen attention to detail, critical thinking skills, and patience since coders should be able to notice the smallest mistakes in a code and be able to work through any issues that may come up while working on a project. These skills are not only valuable to coders but can also be useful in one’s personal life as well.

Coding Resources

There are numerous free resources available online once you decide to learn to code. Sites like Coursera, Udemy, Codecademy, AGupieWare, and edX offer free coding courses, and multiple Youtube videos and blogs are available to watch or read through as well, depending on your learning preference.

People are only becoming more exposed to technology every day, and knowing how to code as a skill can not only help you navigate and use these technologies better but help you maximize these and make the most out of them as well.

BIO: Arleen Atienza has been writing for several organizations and individuals in the past six years. Her educational background in Psychology and professional experience in corporate enable her to approach a wide range of topics including finance, business, beauty, health and wellness, and law, to name a few.