A Record-Breaking Programming Hour: The Largest Coding Class in the World
On October 12, 2024, history was made at the Tech Institute of the University of Lisbon, where over 1,700 students, aged 12 to 67, gathered for a monumental programming class that set a new world record. This event didn’t just break previous records; it united people from diverse backgrounds in their quest to learn coding.
One of many moments in a historic gathering.
Previously, the record was held by a class of 724 participants in Dallas back in 2016. Fast forward eight years, and we now witness a staggering number of eager learners coming together in Lisbon. The passion for programming has never been more palpable!
Breaking Boundaries with Programming
The event, which took approximately 90 minutes to organize and seat everyone, ultimately counted around 1,750 attendees, although only 1,668 were officially counted for the Guinness World Records. As reported by one of the instructors, Rodrigo Girão, a few participants didn’t remain focused enough during the lessons to be counted.
This gathering not only showcases the growing interest in programming but also highlights the community’s commitment to education and inclusivity. Imagine the diverse stories each participant brought—beginner programmers, aspiring developers, and seasoned learners all under one roof.
Collaboration in action during the world record attempt.
The Power of Python
The session began with the brilliant IT professor and AI specialist Inês Lynce, who introduced the basics of algorithms to the audience. Following her lead, Rodrigo Girão guided attendees through the fascinating world of Python programming, illustrating how to transform algorithms into executable code.
The excitement in the room was electric as we delved into hands-on activities. I distinctly recall a moment when a participant suddenly realized they could make a game using Python—a lightbulb moment that could potentially change their career path forever!
After covering the essentials of writing Python code, the participants were treated to advanced demonstrations from Professor Arlindo Oliveira, who showcased more complex algorithms and even a RAG application. This application was particularly impressive as it allowed users to interact with literary works that are part of the Portuguese school curriculum.
Solving Sudoku with Code
Interested in what the programming lessons included? You can check out this Blogartikel that covers some of the topics discussed, including a project that involved writing a program to solve Sudoku puzzles. It’s a fantastic way to illustrate the practical uses of programming in problem-solving!
As I reflected on the experience, I realized how accessible and engaging coding can be when taught in a collaborative atmosphere. It’s a reminder that regardless of age, everyone can embark on their programming journey with the right guidance.
A New Era of Online Learning
Intriguingly, while this world record attempt was striking, it was still eclipsed by an even larger online event in April 2021, where over 112,000 participants joined a programming session. It’s apparent that the shift towards online learning has made programming education more accessible than ever before.
The incredible turnout in Lisbon serves as a microcosm of this growing trend. As someone who’s witnessed the evolution of coding education firsthand, I can’t help but feel excited about where we’re headed. The community is evolving, and it’s thrilling to be a part of this journey as more and more individuals awaken their coding potential.
In conclusion, the world record programming class in Lisbon not only set a Guinness record but also ignited a passion for programming across generations. Events like this inspire future coders and remind us of the impactful role that education and community play in our tech-driven world.
The future is bright, and it will be fascinating to see how many more record-breaking coding events will shape our community in the years to come.
