Coding coming to B.C. schools

Grade 6 to 9 students in British Columbia will soon be learning computer coding as a mandatory part of their classes.

The Education Ministry has announced plans to spend$2 million to trainteachers and developacurriculum, while another $2 million will be set aside to buy equipment and resources.

The ministry said learning to code will teach students how to analyze a problem, determine steps to fix it and come up with directions so a machine can carry out those steps.

It's hoped a curriculum can be developed by next year so students can start learning coding by September 2018.

Premier Christy Clark and Education Minister Mike Bernier made the announcement Friday whilestudents in Grades 4 to 7 showcased their coding and robotics projects.