3052: How Hedy is Transforming How Kids Learn to Code

In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I explore how Felienne Hermans, creator of the Hedy platform, is reshaping programming education for the next generation. Hedy is an open-source, free platform designed to help children aged 10 and above learn textual programming across multiple languages. With an impressive 500,000 monthly users and translations into 49 languages—including Chinese, Arabic, and Spanish—Hedy is not only accessible but also adaptable to diverse learning environments. Felienne, a professor of computer science education at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and a high-school teacher in the Codasium program, brings a unique perspective on how we need to radically rethink programming education. She shares the inspiration behind Hedy’s development, highlighting how the platform breaks away from traditional teaching models by offering step-by-step, relatable exercises that engage students in a meaningful way. From stories and drawings to music, Hedy’s approach goes far beyond the typical abstract exercises found in traditional programming lessons. Felienne also dives into the important role that native languages and culture play in fostering stronger connections between young learners and programming. By allowing students to code in their native languages, Hedy is promoting inclusivity and engagement, making technology feel more relevant and attainable. In this conversation, we explore why it's crucial for parents and educators to introduce children to coding early, and how tools like Hedy can help them do so in a way that's both enjoyable and effective. Felienne also shares her top tips for teaching children to code, offering insights from her own journey as both an educator and a developer. We discuss how to cultivate curiosity in young learners, why programming skills are essential for the future workforce, and how platforms like Hedy are preparing students for the future of technology. What do you think the future holds for programming education? Could tools like Hedy spark a global movement in coding literacy? Listen in and share your thoughts!