Programming is the science of writing a series of instructions to command a computer to perform the desired task, such as moving a robot or making a game character perform certain actions. Programming involves the creation of these series of instructions, or “programs”. The code of these programs can be written a variety of different programming languages, such as Java, Python, or C, but regardless of programming language, these are a series of instructions for the computer to perform. In programming camp, students learn different programming languages by learning to code their code projects.

Computer programs have become ubiquitous in recent years, both in the workplace and at home. Learning the basics of programming helps students understand how these programs work, and better understand the world around them. In addition, learning programming helps kids develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Programming also helps students to become active content producers and explore tech careers including programming, game design, & robotics

VisionTech offers several programming courses, including Robotics & Visual Programming, Computer Science & Robotics with Arduino, Java Programming Camp, Game Development with Python Programming, Python Coding Camp, Minecraft Modding with Java & Forge, & Coding & Video Game Design with Tynker. In addition, our 3D Level Design with Unreal Engine 4 camp features some optional programming segments.

While there is a technical difference between the terms programming and coding, the two terms are often used interchangeably – even in professional environments. Scripting usually refers to small programs built in certain languages, and while it is also often used interchangeably with programming, it is used less often – for example, you would be unlikely to see someone programming in Java to refer to their code as a script.

The choice of first programming language for new students is often hotly debated among teachers and computer scientists. However, while each student is unique, we believe that it is best for students at younger ages to start learning with a visual programming language, such as those offered in the Robotics & Visual Programming camp. For older students who are planning to learn a more “traditional” programming language with written code, we believe the ideal first language to be either Python or Java. However, each student is unique, and often student interest in a topic, such as an Arduino robot, can make their first language choice more suited to their interests.

Absolutely! At VisionTech, every child will work on their individual computer and projects during coding camp, thus controlling where they start. Beginning programmers will start with introductory lessons, designed to give first time learners a solid foundation to learn programming.

Absolutely! At VisionTech, every child will work on their individual computer and projects, thus controlling where they start. Advanced students will start with a quick refresher, and move on to intermediate and advanced lessons with more challenging programming projects.

Many of our programming camps use an Integrated Development Environment, or an IDE during camp. An Integrated Development Environment is a tool designed to make programming easier on the programmer, often flagging common issues up, and assisting in the running and debugging of code. These IDE’s generally vary depending on the language being taught in camp, but these are often invaluable tools assisting programmers.

Java is currently one of the world’s most popular programming language – and a great introduction to programming. The Java Programming Language is currently what is tested on the AP Computer Science tests, and a great programming language to get kids and teens coding. Java code is cross-platform, meaning that it works on Mac, Windows, and Linux computers, regardless of operating system, thus making ideal for all computer users to start learning programming.

Python is quickly becoming one of the world’s most popular and easy-to-learn programming languages – and a great introduction to programming. The Python Programming Language is one of the fastest growing languages in the world, and a great programming language to get kids and teens coding. The Python interpreter is cross platform, meaning that it works on Mac, Windows, and Linux computers, regardless of operating system, and provides an excellent introduction to coding, given its user-interactive nature. We utilize Python in our Game Programming with Python camp, and our Python Coding camp.

The C family of programming languages, including C, C++, C#, Objective C, Robot-C, and many others are programming languages that are influenced by the original C language. C, and C++ in particular, are extremely popular, and while older than some more recent languages, are valued for their speed. However, due to complexities in their design, many of these languages can be a little tricky to use. While some variants, such as C# are easier to use, they often sacrifice the speed that makes C++ so popular.