Journal ArticleDOI
Integrating computational thinking with K-12 science education using agent-based computation: A theoretical framework
TLDR
A theoretical investigation of key issues that need to be considered for integrating CT into K-12 science topics by identifying the synergies between CT and scientific expertise using a particular genre of computation: agent-based computation is presented.Abstract:
Computational thinking (CT) draws on concepts and practices that are fundamental to computing and computer science. It includes epistemic and representational practices, such as problem representation, abstraction, decomposition, simulation, verification, and prediction. However, these practices are also central to the development of expertise in scientific and mathematical disciplines. Recently, arguments have been made in favour of integrating CT and programming into the K-12 STEM curricula. In this paper, we first present a theoretical investigation of key issues that need to be considered for integrating CT into K-12 science topics by identifying the synergies between CT and scientific expertise using a particular genre of computation: agent-based computation. We then present a critical review of the literature in educational computing, and propose a set of guidelines for designing learning environments on science topics that can jointly foster the development of computational thinking with scientific expertise. This is followed by the description of a learning environment that supports CT through modeling and simulation to help middle school students learn physics and biology. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our system by discussing the results of a small study conducted in a middle school science classroom. Finally, we discuss the implications of our work for future research on developing CT-based science learning environments.read more
Citations
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Journal ArticleDOI
Defining Computational Thinking for Mathematics and Science Classrooms
David Weintrop,Elham Beheshti,Michael S. Horn,Kai Orton,Kemi Jona,L. Trouille,L. Trouille,Uri Wilensky +7 more
TL;DR: This paper proposes a definition of computational thinking for mathematics and science in the form of a taxonomy consisting of four main categories: data practices, modeling and simulation practices, computational problem solving practices, and systems thinking practices.
Journal ArticleDOI
Review on teaching and learning of computational thinking through programming
Sze Yee Lye,Joyce Hwee Ling Koh +1 more
TL;DR: The current trends of empirical research in the development of computational thinking through programming is presented and a constructionism-based problem-solving learning environment could be designed to foster computational practices and computational perspectives and suggests possible research and instructional implications.
Journal ArticleDOI
Demystifying computational thinking
TL;DR: Examples of CT definitions, interventions, assessments, and models across a variety of disciplines are shown, with a call for more extensive research in this area.
Computational Thinking 計算論的思考
Jeannette M. Wing,翻訳:中島 秀之 +1 more
TL;DR: In this article, a universally applicable attitude and skill set for computer science is presented, which is a set of skills and attitudes that everyone would be eager to learn and use, not just computer scientists.
Journal ArticleDOI
Computational thinking in compulsory education: Towards an agenda for research and practice
TL;DR: This article further elaborate on what Computational Thinking is and present examples of what needs to be taught and how, and positions Computational thinking in Papert’s work with LOGO.
References
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Book
Mindstorms: Children, Computers, And Powerful Ideas
TL;DR: The gears of my childhood as discussed by the authors were a source of inspiration for many of the ideas we use in our own work, such as the notion of assimilation of knowledge into a new model.
Journal ArticleDOI
Computational thinking
TL;DR: In this paper, a universally applicable attitude and skill set for computer science is presented, which is a set of skills and attitudes that everyone would be eager to learn and use, not just computer scientists.
Journal ArticleDOI
Establishing the norms of scientific argumentation in classrooms
TL;DR: In this article, a review of the role of argumentative discourse in science education is presented, and it is argued that the lack of opportunities for the practice of argument within science classrooms, and lack of teacher's pedagogical skills in organizing argumentive discourse within the classroom are significant impediments to progress in the field.
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