Share Paper: Integrating Computational Thinking in the Mathematics Curriculum

1. Gerard Rambally, University of North Texas at Dallas, United States

Abstract: This paper focuses on the integration of computational thinking (CT) skills in secondary school mathematics. Using example concepts from the mathematics curriculum, this paper demonstrates how key CT skills including algorithmic thinking, problem reformulation, exhaustive search, heuristic reasoning, backtracking, and problem representation, can be fostered without computer programming. The paper presents a minds-on, seamless (i.e. no new content), problem-driven integration of CT in mathematics which expose students to habits of mind beyond the standard mathematics curriculum thereby providing them with a broader, firmer foundation. Furthermore, the approach suggested in this paper does not extend the mathematics curriculum. Various types of ...