What is Hour of Code? A Chance to Kickstart Your Coding Literacy

There's technology everywhere you look — from the phone in your hand to the car you ride in. Imagine being able to understand and perhaps even create the technology around you. This is where coding literacy comes in.

If you want to increase your coding literacy, events such as Hour of Code present a potential starting point.

"The Hour of Code began as a one-hour coding challenge to give students a fun-first introduction to computer science and coding and has since become a global celebration event of learning and awareness," said Alyssa Laskowski, a career engagement partner for Career Services at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU). Laskowski has helped coordinate the Hour of Code event at SNHU for the last several years.

What is the Purpose of Hour of Code?

Hour of Code is a global movement that introduces people of all ages and skill levels to the basics of coding in a fun, easy and accessible way (Hour of Code PDF).

The main goal of Hour of Code is to show that computer science and coding are not exclusive to a certain group, Laskowski said. "It's about making learning fun and engaging for everyone, regardless of their skill level. Hour of Code truly embodies the spirit of inclusivity," she said.

But who hosts these events, and where can you join one?

According to Laskowski, universities like SNHU and K-12 institutions nationwide play a crucial role in hosting Hour of Code events.

"These events, which occur annually during Computer Science Education Week every early December, are a testament to our commitment to promoting computer science education," she said.

Is Hour of Code Free?

Yes. "Hour of Code is absolutely free for SNHU students or alumni to attend," said Daisy Gillam '20, an employer relations partner at SNHU. "It's a unique way to interact with other SNHU students, expert faculty and staff, and employers in the industry."

In fact, all career services are free to SNHU students and alumni, according to Gillam. SNHU career advisors can help you explore career assessments, career path resources and offer individual career coaching.

"We also host several career events throughout the year," she said. You can learn more about them here, and the Career Advising team can also be reached via cocecareer@snhu.edu.

An SNHU alum herself, Gillam has worked in higher education for 15 years and is passionate about educating and connecting students to their career goals.

Hour of Code at SNHU

The recent annual SNHU Hour of Code event took place from December 3-6, 2024. There were six game sessions available with 360 total attendees, and the event kicked off with an employer panel that featured employers like:

• Baptist Health System
• Chevron
• Scientific Systems
• SilverTech

In addition to the Hour of Code events, schools like SNHU may offer other experiential learning opportunities to students interested in technology.

Two opportunities could include:

• Amazon Web Series (AWS) Jams. AWS jams provide students a learning opportunity to help advance their skills in cloud computing while connecting with the SNHU community.
• National Cyber League (NCL). You can also test your cybersecurity skills through competitions such as NCL. Last fall, SNHU placed 4th in this competition to take on real-world cybersecurity tasks.

With so many resources available, events like the Hour of Code, AWS Jams and National Cyber Leagues can be a great way to test your skills and network with others.

According to Gillam, students who attend Hour of Code are exposed to the world of coding, which contributes to the development of well-rounded learners.

"Code runs the world, and exposure to coding is great for everybody. And you never know, the right student may attend an Hour of Code event and find a new passion in coding," she said.

So, What is Coding Literacy?

Coding literacy means you know how to read, write and think about code — or the language computers "speak."

"In today's increasingly technology-driven world, coding literacy is becoming a crucial skill, essential for various fields ranging from software development and data analysis to robotics and artificial intelligence," said Dr. Sharon Kibbe, an adjunct faculty member and retired senior associate dean of STEM programs at SNHU.

Coding can give you the power to bring your ideas to life, whether you want to improve current technology, make your own video games or solve any number of technical problems.

"Coding literacy can empower individuals to create solutions to problems and think them out logically," said Kibbe, who has presented her work at statewide and national conferences. She has also been involved in Supercomputing Conference committees and projects, as well as Virtual Worlds Best Practices in Education and several STEM-related professional associations, including EDUCAUSE.

Knowing how to code can help you understand how the apps on your phone are built or how to make a website from scratch. But more than that, it can teach you how to solve problems.

What Are Coding Skills?

Learning to code means understanding how to effectively communicate with computers. Coding skills are the tools you use to do so.

"Coding literacy helps to understand, read and write code proficiently," Kibbe said.

This means not just knowing the basics but being able to put them to the test. According to Skills You Need, these are seven skills that successful coders have:

Attention to Detail

There are many different coding languages, each with its own set of rules and challenges. It's important to pay attention to the key details of the language you're working with to help you minimize mistakes and identify them quickly.

Experimentation

Coding can involve creativity and experimentation. This means challenging yourself to try to learn how to do things you've never done before.

Patience and Perseverance

Encountering bugs is a big part of coding and can be frustrating. You'll need to practice patience and persistence when hunting down and correcting those pesky errors.

Planning

Starting a coding project without a proper approach can create more problems in the long run, so it's important to get in the habit of mapping out things in advance.

Problem-solving

Coding isn’t just about typing; it’s about thinking. You’ll want to know how to break down big problems into smaller ones that are easier to solve.

Self-reliance

Learning to code can involve a lot of improvising when trying to identify potential solutions. You'll need to trust your instincts and decision-making.

Understanding Computers

Having a general knowledge of computers and how they work may make it easier to understand certain coding concepts.

Strengthening these skills is a step towards becoming more fluent in coding. And the best part is you don't need to be an expert to start learning.

Attending an Hour of Code event can be a great way to dip your toes into the world of coding without feeling overwhelmed.

Nicholas Patterson ’22 ’25MFA is a writer based in West Michigan with several years of experience as a content creator in higher education. He’s an alumnus of Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), where he earned both his bachelor’s in English and creative writing and his Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing. When his head’s not in novels, you can find him outside dreaming up his own stories. Connect with him on LinkedIn.