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Solving the Puzzle: Putting the Pieces Together Via Computational Thinking

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Session description

The heart of computational thinking is problem solving. Like putting a puzzle together, strategies and processes can be followed to improve the probability of success. Discover the four pillars of computational thinking to design solutions to various problems that can be used with a variety of students and classrooms.

Outline

Introduction (20 mins)
- Welcome & introductions
- Overview of computational thinking concepts
- Opening Activity using Computational Thinking

Core Computational Thinking Concepts (20 mins)

Simple Sudoku Puzzle

- Decomposition - Breaking down problems into smaller, manageable parts
- Pattern Recognition - Identifying patterns, trends, similarities in data/problems
- Abstraction - Focusing on important information only, ignoring unnecessary details
- Algorithms - Steps/instructions to solve problems
- Demonstrate each concept with Spheros activity
- Programmer
- Debugging

Applying Computational Thinking (30 mins)
- Small group design challenge using Spheros or station rotation depending on participants preference (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1wtxNjIWmtMCyKYZhSNdto0ZYtdxSt7JyDX98-bvUNsc/edit)
- Identify a problem
- Use computational thinking to break into parts & develop step-by-step algorithm to solve
- Groups present solutions

Wrap Up & Discussion (20 mins)
- Review key concepts
- Discuss applications for the classroom
- Q&A
- Resources for further learning
- Complete workshop survey

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Supporting research

Computational Thinking and Coding for Every Student: The Teacher’s Getting-Started Guide {Book} by Jane Krauss & Kiki Prottsman

ISTE Computational Thinking Standards - https://drive.google.com/file/d/15aITFHbOU88W2R1GJZy8QwkKbPjYlOph/view?usp=sharing

Collaboration of Unplugged and Plugged Activities for Primary School Students: Developing Computational Thinking with Programming Article (International Journal of Computer Science in Education, May 2024)- https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MKG8mNDyo4Vf_fIb2pVLpeYMtHMSCeDL/view?usp=sharing

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Presenters

Meredith Hill

Digital Teaching & Learning Consultant

NC Dept of Public Instruction

Brian Whitson

Digital Teaching & Learning Consultant

NC Dept of Public Instruction

Session specifications

Topic:

Computer Science and Computational Thinking

TLP:

Yes

Grade level:

PK-5

Audience:

Curriculum Designer/Director, Teacher, Technology Coach/Trainer

Attendee devices:

Devices required

Attendee device specification:

Smartphone: Android, iOS, Windows
Laptop: Chromebook, Mac, PC
Tablet: Android, iOS, Windows

Participant accounts, software and other materials:

Any device with a modern web browser with internet connection will be sufficient for this session. Access to a smartphone device or laptop with bluetooth access will also be needed.

Subject area:

Computer Science

ISTE Standards:

For Students:
Computational Thinker

Formulate problem definitions suited for technology-assisted methods such as data analysis, abstract models and algorithmic thinking in exploring and finding solutions.
Break problems into component parts, extract key information, and develop descriptive models to understand complex systems or facilitate problem-solving.
Understand how automation works and use algorithmic thinking to develop a sequence of steps to create and test automated solutions.

TLPs:

Spark Curiosity, Ignite Agency