Code+Academy

Code Academy is an online tool designed to teach computer programming.

Resources and links
@http://www.codecademy.com/learn - homepage http://help.codecademy.com/ - help articles

Strengths:

 * Intuitive
 * Explains things well
 * Helps you identify errors
 * Does not require software or downloads
 * Free to use
 * Fun
 * Instant feedback
 * Many popular programming languages to choose from
 * Built-in project ideas (build a website, animate your name, etc.)
 * Forums for help (even for the specific topic within your code course)
 * Even teaches some advanced topics in programming

Weaknesses:

 * Requires Internet
 * Little collaboration as students learn
 * “Codebits” are contained coding projects that can be viewed by others, but not modified
 * Not easy to track progress for several students at once (no community options)

Opportunities:

 * Students can learn to develop websites and do some basic animations
 * Good for computer science classes
 * Maybe not AP, though, where a bit more conceptual knowledge will be necessary

Threats:

 * Discussion Forums are monitored, but there still exists a risk of inappropriate content
 * Forums are limited, though, to topics you have completed or have in progress

Ideas:

 * Students could make a class website, mock or real
 * Students could redesign the school's website