New Pytch Web-App Released to Help Students Transition to Text-Based Programming

Posted on: 09 April 2024

A new version of the free "Pytch" app has been launched, developed through a collaborative effort between young coders and educators globally. This upgraded tool aims to support students and beginner programmers as they navigate the shift from block-based programming to text-based coding in Python.

Pytch is designed to bridge the gap between the visual simplicity of block-based environments, like MIT's Scratch, and the more complex world of text-based programming. Block-based platforms, such as Scratch, are widely used to introduce programming concepts to young learners, allowing them to create projects with graphics, sounds, and animations. However, as students advance, they often face challenges transitioning to text-based programming languages like Python, which requires abandoning familiar visual elements like Sprites, sounds, and interactive features.

Glenn Strong, Assistant Professor at Trinity College Dublin’s School of Computer Science and Statistics, leads the Pytch project. He explained, "When students shift to text-based coding, programming can start to feel more like work than a creative, enjoyable activity. Pytch addresses this by allowing students to continue creating programs using terms and concepts familiar from Scratch, such as Sprites and event-driven programming." Strong expressed excitement over the release of the new version, which he believes will make coding more engaging and accessible for learners.

The app has been in development for over a year, with input from a global community of students and educators. The new version is now available online, where users can write Python code through guided experiences, starting with creating computer games. Pytch allows users to build various programs while simultaneously developing foundational programming skills.

Over 300 students and 30 educators have been involved in the co-creation of Pytch’s classroom activities. An eight-week Pytch course was recently included in the Computer Science Inclusive Learning Environment (CSLINC) platform, a resource providing computer science education to over 6,000 students across Ireland. To date, more than 4,500 students have enrolled in the new Pytch lesson plan within CSLINC, and hundreds have already begun engaging with the course materials.

Pytch also has a growing network of collaborators and supporters internationally, including partnerships with University Rey Juan Carlos in Spain, Technocamps in Wales, and educational institutions in countries such as the UK, France, Italy, the US, and China.

Dr. Ben North, the lead developer of Pytch and a Research Fellow at Trinity’s School of Computer Science and Statistics, emphasised the importance of feedback from educators and students. "Collaborating with teachers and students ensures we are building a platform that meets their needs. We’ve used their input to enhance this new version of Pytch, and we are excited to see what users will create. Going forward, we’re focused on improving the app’s accessibility and exploring the possibility of translating the platform into Irish."

The project is funded by Science Foundation Ireland (SFI), with continued support from SFI’s Director of Science for Society, Dr. Ruth Freeman. She noted the critical role Pytch plays in helping students move from block-based to text-based programming, particularly as they progress to more advanced computer science studies. Dr. Freeman expressed confidence that the expanded Pytch platform will be an invaluable resource for teachers and students alike, supporting their learning journey from introductory coding to subjects like the Leaving Certificate in Computer Science and beyond.