Computer coding in schools possible, says minister

P.E.I. Education Minister Hal Perry says he is looking forward to input from new advisory councils on whether computer coding should be added to school curriculain the province.

A director of the P.E.I. Home and School Federation has recommended the addition of computer coding to schools as early as kindergarten.

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Hal Perry said P.E.I. could look to Nova Scotia for how to introduce computer coding. That province plans to make coding part of the curriculum in every grade, to help prepare students for future careers.

Perry said the new education advisory councils government recently announced would be consulted.

"We have to look at more creative and innovative curriculum within our school systems, and it's something that our new advisory council can put input into," said Perry.

"Our hope is that these new advisory councils will be in place in January, and they will have input shortly after. And we will take their input and develop policy, and develop our curriculum by listening and working in a collaborative effort in engaging all people."

Perry said P.E.I. would have the technical ability to offer computer coding in schools by the end of 2016 when Wi-Fi accessibility and hardware installation is complete.