Computer programming & Modelling

Using software for modelling in the classroom is important because it teaches children about reaching a decision based on trial activity before we commit ourselves to the real thing. This is an important skill for children to develop because the idea about 'what will happen if....' is important for children to think about.
Modelling is also very fascinating for children and their are lots of program examples that are good to look into such as Tizzy's Tools.
Modelling is also seen in the National Curriculum: in KS1 children should be taught to try things out and explore. In KS2 children should be taught to develop ideas and make things happen, to use simulations and explore models in order to answer 'What if...?'questions.

LOGO
Programmable toys like Logo are important to learning because according to Papert's Philosophy - the essence of logo involves thinking about processes; about how you are doing what you are doing.

This can also help with children's learning as it develops their mathematical skills with shape and number. It is also more interesting to really see how a design was created rather than just seeing the finished product.