Connect: Computational Thinking

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Code Jumper Gives Children Who Are Blind the Tools to Code

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Computational Thinking is a systematic approach to problem solving that can be applied to any situation, but it is the main one used for coding.  Everyone should know what it means to code, but you do not have to teach coding to teach Computational Thinking.  In fact, many of the lessons revolve around the individual steps.  For Decomposition - break down a sentence into the parts of speech using this tool.  For Pattern Recognition - try these Lesson ideas.  For Abstraction - use Abstraction with Mad Glibs.  For Algorithm - try an online flowchart marker like Lucidchart.

To put it all together, try these lessons:

• Unplugged
  • K-12 Code.org - Teacher Home Page - Curriculum Standards
  • K-12 All You Need Is Code - Lesson Plans
  • K-12 PBS - 18 Lesson Plans Teaching the Power of Invention
• Plugged (electronic device required)
  • K-12 Code.org - Teacher Home Page - Curriculum Standards
  • K-12 All You Need Is Code - Lesson Plans
  • 2-12 CoSpaces Edu - Lessons adaptable for all subjects

You might also consider giving your students voice and choice when choosing how to apply the Computational Thinking process.  Here are a few resources to help students choose:

• Code.org has great unplugged lessons for K-12 that do not require a computer. 
  • K-2 Happy Maps
  • 2-12 Binary Bracelets
  • 3-12 Graph Paper Programming
  • 3-12 Paper Airplanes
  • 3-12 Human Grid
  • 4-12 Dice Race

• Plugged Activities
  • K-2 MiTechKids - Robot Coding ABC 123
  • K-2 MiTechKids - Analyzing data
  • 3-5 MiTechKids - Event Planner
  • 4-6 MiTechKids - Understanding Algorithms
  • K-5 Code.org - Courses A-F 
  • 6-8 Code.org - CS Fundamentals 
  • 9-12 Code.org - CS Discoveries
  • 6-12 Thing 13 - 21 Things 4 Students - Dig the Data

Furthermore, evaluation is an important part of the learning process, but how do you assess an end product that is undefined? Do you assess the process or the end product?  To help you decide, read "How Do I Assess the Development of CT?", Assessing computational thinking using a multiple evaluation approach, or Assessing computational thinking.

Level Up

SAMR Framework for Tech Integration

• Substitution - Choose a resource that substitutes for an existing in class activity
  • Example: Using an unplugged coding activity
• Augmentation - Choose a resource that gives your students additional functionality.
  • Example: Using a tool like Microbits to practice basic coding skills.
• Modification - Choose a resource where the technology changes the type of task.
  • Example: Students use Minecraft to create a virtual world with other students that meets the requirements of an assignment.
• Redefinition - Choose a resource that completely redesigns the task and is not possible without using online, collaborative, interactive technology.
  • Example: Solving a problem in a coding challenge using 3D printing, Minecraft, Tinkercad, or other tools and sharing the results with a community of students working in teams using Design Thinking to code for a purpose.

TPACK Framework for Tech Integration

• Technology - utilize technology resources to apply the Computational Thinking process
  • Example: Using plugged and unplugged technology, students code an object created in a Makerspace.
• Pedagogy - using engaging resources in large group, small group, and individual settings to enhance learning
  • Example: Students review the code from other classes and suggest revisions.
• Content - creating Design Thinking challenges within the curricular area
  • Example: Students identify problems that can be solved with content area knowledge and the Computational Thinking process.