Scratch
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Analysis by LookedApp · Published · Updated
Scratch is a block-based programming environment available through a web browser and as a downloadable computer application. It is designed to enable users, particularly those aged 8 to 16, to create interactive stories, games, and animations. The platform fosters creativity and computational thinking by allowing users to snap code blocks together and share their projects with a global online community.
What is Scratch?
Scratch is a block-based programming environment that operates within a web browser, accessible at scratch.mit.edu. It allows individuals to create interactive stories, games, and animations by assembling visual code blocks. The platform is a project of the Scratch Foundation, developed in collaboration with the Lifelong Kindergarten Group at the MIT Media Lab.
The Scratch Foundation also provides a downloadable Scratch application for computers, which can be obtained from scratch.mit.edu/download. While Scratch itself is primarily web-based and has a desktop application, a related application called ScratchJr is available for younger children on the App Store and Google Play, also published by the Scratch Foundation.
This programming environment is provided free of charge, making it accessible to a wide audience. It is available in more than 70 languages, supporting a diverse user base globally.
Latest on Scratch
Is this the real Scratch app?
Key features
- Users can program interactive stories, games, and animations.
- Code blocks are snapped together to create programs.
- Projects can be shared with the online Scratch community.
- The platform is available in more than 70 languages.
- Educators have the ability to create teacher accounts.
- Teacher accounts can manage student accounts and classes.
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Privacy and permissions
The Scratch Foundation's listing for Scratch does not explicitly detail specific data collection practices or required permissions for its web-based platform or downloadable computer application. Information regarding user data handling, privacy policies, or permissions typically requested by mobile applications is not stated in the provided description. Users interested in privacy specifics would need to consult the developer's website directly.
Scratch permissions in plain English
Scratch at a glance
| Developer | Scratch Foundation |
|---|---|
| Category | Games & Learning |
| Price | Free |
What changed in the latest Scratch version
Pricing
Scratch is provided free of charge to all users. The developer states that there are no costs associated with using the block-based programming environment, whether accessed through a web browser or via the downloadable computer application. The listing does not mention any in-app purchases or subscription models for the core Scratch platform.
Scratch compared with similar apps
| App | Rating | Installs | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 Scratch | – | – | Free |
 Roblox | 4.2 | 1B+ | Free |
 PBS KIDS Games | 4.4 | 10M+ | Free |
 Kahoot! | 4.7 | 100M+ | Free |
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How to get Scratch safely
To access Scratch safely, users should navigate directly to the developer's designated website, scratch.mit.edu, for the web-based programming environment. For those wishing to use the downloadable computer application, it should be obtained exclusively from scratch.mit.edu/download. It is advisable to always verify that the website domain is correct to ensure authenticity.
Users should exercise caution and avoid obtaining the Scratch application from unofficial sources, third-party download sites, or file-sharing networks, as these might distribute modified or potentially harmful versions. Since Scratch is a web-based tool with a desktop application, the typical mobile app store precautions regarding developer names and permissions are less directly applicable, but verifying the source remains crucial.
How to install Scratch
Scratch version and app details
Who Scratch is for
Scratch is particularly designed for individuals between the ages of 8 and 16, serving as an introductory platform for learning programming concepts. However, its intuitive block-based interface makes it accessible and engaging for people of all ages who are interested in creating interactive digital content. It caters to aspiring game developers, animators, and storytellers.
For its younger audience, parental supervision is recommended, especially when children are engaging with the online community features where projects are shared. This oversight can help ensure a positive and safe experience while they explore programming and interact with content created by others. Educators can also utilize Scratch, with features allowing them to manage student accounts and classes.
Scratch for kids and families
Pros
- Provides a free and accessible programming environment.
- Utilizes a block-based interface for intuitive learning.
- Supports creation of interactive stories, games, and animations.
- Offers an online community for project sharing and collaboration.
- Available in more than 70 languages for global reach.
- Includes features for educators to manage classes.
Cons
- Primarily web-based, requiring internet access for full functionality (though a downloadable app exists).
- The block-based nature may eventually be limiting for advanced programming concepts.
- A separate app, ScratchJr, is needed for younger children on mobile devices.
- The listing does not detail specific privacy practices or data handling.
Scratch: frequently asked questions
Is Scratch available at no cost?
Yes, Scratch is provided free of charge.
On which devices can Scratch be used?
Scratch runs in a web browser and is also available as a downloadable application for computers.
Who is the developer of Scratch?
Scratch is a project of the Scratch Foundation, in collaboration with the Lifelong Kindergarten Group at the MIT Media Lab.
What age group is Scratch designed for?
Scratch is designed especially for ages 8 to 16, but it is used by people of all ages.
Can users share their creations?
Yes, users can share their projects with the online Scratch community.
Is Scratch available in multiple languages?
Yes, Scratch is available in more than 70 languages.
Scratch
- Category
- Games & Learning
- Version
- Varies with device
