As our education system continues to recognise the importance of computer literacy (as evidenced by the introduction of computer coding into the national school syllabus), parents today might find the option of giving their young ones a headstart in the field by enrolling them in specialised programmes.
Half of the highest paying jobs in America now require some knowledge or skill in coding. It’s possible this trend might show itself in Malaysia too.
To that end, we list down some of the places within the Klang Valley that offer education in coding, programming, and many other important computer skills.
1. CodeJuniors
Located in TTDI, CodeJuniors offers game-based coding classed to children in two age categories—Little Juniors (5–8) and Explorer Juniors (9–15).
Classes are facilitated by experienced coders who have worked at major companies such as CBS and Microsoft, and students can expect to get their feet wet in game-centric coding and programming with languages such as Python and Scratch. Other modules include Minecraft modding, MIT visual programming, Google Blockly, and mobile app programming.
CodeJuniors also organises holiday camps during school breaks, and youngsters can expect to learn how to build simple robots and create applications in small classes.
Contact: http://www.codejuniors.com/
Location: 48, Jalan Tun Mohd Fuad, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Kuala Lumpur
2. Computertots
Established in 1983, Computertots has various learning centres throughout Kuala Lumpur and aims to provide children aged 3–12 years with a comprehensive learning programme that covers not only coding and programming, but also office skills, engineering, digital graphics, robotics, and thinking skills.
The programme engages students in a progressive curriculum that starts with foundational skills and leads them on to more advanced concepts. Classes meet in small groups on a weekly basis four times a month.
Website http://www.computertots.com.my/
Location: Click this link for a list of Computertots learning centres.
3. KidoCode
Founded in 2014, KidoCode is an MDEC-partnered coding and math academy for children and teens aged 6–18.
Based in Solaris, Mont Kiara, KidoCode offers in-depth courses that touch on subjects such as robotics, mobile app development, game development, web design, mathematics and more.
One of the courses they provide is a 50-hour programme that lasts a maximum of 3 months, with the added option of flexible timing—students can attend sessions at any time of the day from 10am to 10pm.
By the end of the course, students will have learned how to build around Raspberry Pi, code in Python, design websites, and create mobile apps.
Website: https://kidocode.com/
Location: Solaris, Mont Kiara, 50480 Kuala Lumpur
4. GoCode
With two locations—one in Publika, Mont Kiara, and the other in ISETAN, Lot 10, Go Code teaches youngsters aged 6–18 about coding in various programming languages including HTML, JavaScript, PHP, C#, and a few others.
Classes are spread out across different modules that each have their own specialisation. These include basic coding, game development, web development, as well as learning how to use Arduino and Raspberry Pi.
Learning outcomes for students include being able to programme, design, and animate their own games, understand the working of a website and also how to build one, as well as improved thinking skills among others.
Website: http://kids.gocodemy.com/
Location: D5-G4-03A, Solaris Dutamas, No.1 Jalan Dutamas 1, Kuala Lumpur
5. iTrainKids
Located in the Kuala Lumpur city centre, iTrainKids offers weekend coding workshops for kids aged 8–16. Each full-day workshop is divided into two sessions: 10am to 1pm, and 2pm to 5pm, with tea breaks in between.
Students can expect to learn how to design and program videogames, with a module dedicated to the creation of a Role-Playing Game (RPG), code on iPads, and even learn how to grow their own bacteria in a separate bio hacking module.
The price of a full-day workshop is RM327 per child, and comes with snacks, drinks, and lunch.
Website: https://itrain.com.my/itrainkids/
Location: C-19-8, KL Trillion, 338 Jalan Tun Razak, 50400 Kuala Lumpur
6. CIY.CLUB
Headquartered in Australia, CIY.CLUB (where CIY stands for “Code It Yourself”) offers training in coding, programming, and tech for kids aged 7–17. These are taught through full day coding camps. Participants then have the opportunity to join an ongoing weekly coding club.
Those who join the CIY camps and club can expect to involve themselves in the learning of interactive computer game coding, the basics of 3D printing, and web design.
Website: https://ciy.club/my/
Location: No. 24 Jalan Damai Perdana, 1/8C Bandar Damai Perdana, Cheras, 56000 Kuala Lumpur
Feature Image Credit: iTrainKids
