Block based programming languages are a bad idea for teaching kids programming and I would argue actually counter productive.
I disagree with this. Block based languages reduce the amount of text on the screen (less dependent on reading skill), reduce the amount of typing (dexterity and keyboarding skills) and reduce the number of confusing syntax errors (important if the learner has limited patience and emotional control skills).
All of these skills are important and can be learnt given time, but they are not the same as learning programming. The ideas of abstraction, repetition and problem solving are still there in block languages.
If a kid can't grasp BASIC/HTML/Python, they won't be a programmer (with or without Scratch).
We teach mathematics to everyone but don't expect everyone to become a mathematician. There's no need to handle programming education in such an extreme way.
I disagree with this. Block based languages reduce the amount of text on the screen (less dependent on reading skill), reduce the amount of typing (dexterity and keyboarding skills) and reduce the number of confusing syntax errors (important if the learner has limited patience and emotional control skills).
All of these skills are important and can be learnt given time, but they are not the same as learning programming. The ideas of abstraction, repetition and problem solving are still there in block languages.
If a kid can't grasp BASIC/HTML/Python, they won't be a programmer (with or without Scratch).
We teach mathematics to everyone but don't expect everyone to become a mathematician. There's no need to handle programming education in such an extreme way.