what and why of computational thinking

What & Why of Computational Thinking

Learn how Computational Thinking can be used to support problem-

solving across all disciplines 

Susan S. WellsPresident-Elect 2015-16 for ISTE Mobile Learning Network

http://www.susanswells.com http://www.camptechterra.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanswells wellssusans@gmail.com

@wellssusan

What is computational thinking? Computational thinking is a way of

solving problems, designing systems, and understanding human behavior.

Computational Thinking related to PBL

Project-Based Learning is a dynamic approach to teaching in which students explore real-world problems and challenges. With this type of active and engaged learning, students are inspired to obtain a deeper knowledge and understanding of the subjects they are studying.

Skills of Computational Thinking Problem formation Logic Organizing Analyzing Using models and simulations Using ordered steps (or algorithims) Generalizing Transferring

Why use CT –Focusing on insights and complexity

Persistence through difficult problems

Tolerate problems that don’t have a clear answer

Work with open-ended problems

Work toward common goals with communication and collaboration

Goal of CT

“Students who learn CT across the curriculum can begin to see a relationship between subjects as well as between school and life outside of the classroom.”

https://www.google.com/edu/resources/programs/exploring-computational-thinking/#!ct-overview

Example… Computational Thinking Concept and STEM Application = PBL

Example: Lack of Water Around the World

Computational Thinking Concept- Break a problem into parts or steps STEM Application- Break down global drought crisis areas and determine how drought

conditions are impacting the communities

Computer Science Application- Recognize and find patterns or trends STEM Application- Visualize data comparing water need conditions in parts of the world

Computer Science Application- Develop instructions to solve a problem or steps for a task with data STEM Application- Determine target global water crisis areas based on data, make a plan to

help alleviate water crisis

Operational Definition Computational Thinking

http://csta.acm.org/Curriculum/sub/CurrFiles/CompThinkingFlyer.pdf

https://www.iste.org/explore/articledetail?articleid=152

Susan S. Wells Outreach Coordinator for K-12 Education, Shodor, National

Resource for Computational Science Education  President-Elect 2015-16 for ISTE Mobile Learning Network Founder, Camp TechTerra TM and TechTerra TrainingTM, bringing

together technology and nature in STEM-based discovery Consultant on educational technology for K-12

websitehttp://www.susanswells.comhttp://www.camptechterra.comtwitter@wellssusanContact mewellssusans@gmail.com919-627-4207

Thank you!