Coding across cultures — how the world teaches tech in unique ways

Publication date: August 24, 2024

The ways people approach technology and education are as diverse as the cultures that shape them. The intersection of coding and culture provides a fascinating lens through which one can explore how different societies are adapting to the tech landscape and teaching their youth how to code. From grassroots movements in Africa to innovative educational models in Asia, culture influences tech education and programming practices, making the world of code a richer space. Ever wondered how coding is taught across the world? Let’s explore some approaches to tech education worldwide.

Africa: Bridging the digital divide with localised solutions

Africa’s coding initiatives are as diverse as its cultures. In countries like Nigeria, Kenya, and Ghana, organisations like Decagon and Moringa School are leading in the field of tech education. 

Decagon, a software training institute, brings an interesting contribution to the coding world as it’s deeply influenced by the specific socio-economic and cultural context of Nigeria. Decagon brings a unique perspective to the global coding landscape, as it instils a sense of purpose in its students by encouraging them to develop technologies that have a positive social impact. Decagon’s approach, influenced by the socio-economic challenges in Nigeria, places a greater emphasis on using tech to solve social issues such as unemployment, poverty, and inequality. This perspective enriches the global coding community by infusing it with a mission-driven ethos.

Asia: Innovation interwoven with tradition

Asia’s approach to programming and tech education is a blend of rapid innovation and deep-rooted traditions. In Japan, for instance, coding is being introduced in schools as early as elementary level, but with a unique twist. Japanese culture, which highly values creativity and precision, is reflected in coding curricula that emphasise not just the technical aspects of programming but also the aesthetic and artistic possibilities it offers.

On the other hand, in India, a country with a rich history of mathematics and science, coding initiatives like Masai School and government-backed programmes are making tech education accessible to millions. Apart from this, one of the key technical aspects of Masai School’s curriculum is its focus on problem-solving. Students are regularly challenged with complex coding problems that require them to apply their knowledge in innovative ways. This not only helps them master coding but also shapes their critical thinking and analytical skills, which are essential in today’s tech-driven world.

In essence, the Indian cultural emphasis on education as a means of upward mobility drives a highly competitive, yet community-oriented, approach to learning. Coding bootcamps often incorporate elements of Indian culture, like storytelling or traditional problem-solving techniques, to make learning more relatable and engaging.

Latin America: Coding as a tool for social change

In Latin America, coding is increasingly seen as a powerful tool for social change, and this perspective is shaping tech education across the continent. Countries like Peru and Mexico are home to initiatives like Laboratoria and Codeando México, which focus on empowering underrepresented groups, particularly women and the economically disadvantaged, by teaching them to code.

Peru-founded Laboratoria, for example, is not just a coding school but also a movement aimed at closing the gender gap in tech. The program’s curriculum is designed with a strong emphasis on community and collaboration, reflecting Latin American values of collectivism and social responsibility. These initiatives are helping to transform the lives of individuals while also addressing broader societal issues, like unemployment and inequality, through the lens of technology.

Photo by Max Fischer

Europe: Balance between tradition and innovation 

Europe offers a unique perspective on coding, where a prolific history of scientific research meets cutting-edge innovation. In countries like Estonia, coding has become a national priority, with children as young as seven being taught how to code. Estonia’s approach reflects its cultural emphasis on digital literacy as a foundation for future success, making it a global leader in tech education.

On the other hand, in the United Kingdom, organisations like Code Club are bringing coding to young people through after-school programmes that blend technology with traditional British education values, like critical thinking and creativity. These initiatives often incorporate local history and culture, showing students how technology can be used to preserve and promote their heritage.

Middle East: Focus on cultural relevance, Islamic values and ethics

The Middle East has a distinctive approach to teaching coding that is shaped by its unique cultural, economic, and geopolitical context. Countries like the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia are investing heavily in tech education as part of broader efforts to reduce dependence on oil and build knowledge-based economies. 

In the Middle East, coding education often integrates discussions about ethics, particularly from an Islamic perspective. This reflects the broader cultural and religious values of the region. For instance, students might engage in discussions about the ethical implications of AI, data privacy, and how technology can be used to support social justice and Islamic values. This emphasis on ethics distinguishes the region’s approach from more secular Western educational systems.

The Middle East also places strong importance on preserving and promoting the Arabic language and culture in tech education. Coding platforms, software development tools, and educational materials are increasingly being made available in Arabic to make coding more accessible to a broader audience. This focus on cultural relevance ensures that the digital solutions being developed are better suited to the needs and preferences of the local population.

USA: Innovation-driven environment

The pervasive startup culture in the USA influences coding education to a great extent. Programmes like Code.org and Girls Who Code emphasise not just learning how to code, but using those skills to start something new, whether it’s a business, a social movement, or a novel tech solution. This entrepreneurial spirit is a core part of the American identity and is deeply entrenched in how programming is taught to their youth.

Moreover, there is a growing trend of integrating programming education across various disciplines, not just within computer science. This interdisciplinary approach reflects the broader American emphasis on preparing students for a future where digital literacy is essential in almost every field. Schools are increasingly offering courses that combine coding with subjects like art (e.g., digital media), science (e.g., bioinformatics), and social studies (e.g., data analysis).

In conclusion, as the world becomes increasingly interconnected, these diverse perspectives not only enrich the global coding landscape, but also offer valuable insights into how technology can be used to address the unique challenges faced by different societies. By understanding and embracing these cultural nuances, educators, policymakers, and tech leaders can foster a more inclusive and innovative global tech community, where coding becomes a powerful tool for social change, economic development, and cultural expression. The future of coding, seen through the lens of cultural diversity, is not just about writing better algorithms but about crafting solutions that resonate with and reflect the diverse range of human experiences across the world.