*What is computational thinking? Computational thinking according to publisher Janette Wing is "solving problems, designing systems, and understanding human behavior by drawing on the concepts fundamental to computer sciences." Janette went on to note that computational thinking is not just for those into the sciences, but also can useful for those more interested in reading, writing, and arithmetic.
*How can we make CT accessible? "In 2009, the national Science foundation funded a project titled levering thought leadership for computational thinking in Pk-12". This project has been intended to make the concepts of computational thinking accessible for educators. Included are relevant and appropriate examples of computational thinking along with educational objectives and classroom practices. Computational thinking can help identify most promising practices and has strategies for moving this way of thinking from concept to deep integration.
A few examples of computational thinking include....
*Formulating problems in a way that enables us to use a computer and other tools to help solve them.
*Logically organizing and analyzing data.
*Identifying, analyzing, and implementing possible solutions with the goal of achieving the most efficient and effective combination of steps and resources.
*Generalizing and transferring this problem-solving process to a wide variety of problems.
*How is CT different? " It is a unique combination of thinking skills that, when used together, provide the basis of a new and powerful form of problem solving". It is more tool oriented which can help with familiar problem solving skills.
*Why is CT important you ask? "While the human mind is by far the most powerful problem-solving tool we have, the ability to extend the power of human thought with computers and other digital tools has become an essential part of our everyday lives and work. Students already learn so many elements in computational thinking skills in more ways then one. As educators we need to ensure that all students have the opportunity to learn the complete set of skills so their combined power is available to them.
Jessica,
ReplyDeleteI agree, we need to ensure our students have all the opportunities and resources available to them for computational thinking and computer literacy. I also think this will be the biggest challenge. I am excited to learn about the curriculum changes and incorporation of CT into current standards. I just hope we can get the training needed to teachers to be able to successfully do it!
Hey Jessica,
ReplyDeleteYou are right, computers are now inextricably a part of our everyday life, and it is important that as educators we take advantage of the potential they have in instruction, both in practical use and in conceptual modes of thought. Computers are a great way to demonstrate concepts in logic and problem solving so what better way to explore education than from these perspectives.
Seth