Framework for Computational Thinking (CT) from a Disciplinary Perspective
Abstract: There is much debate both in the US and abroad about whether computational thinking should be taught as a separate activity (eg programming) or through activities that integrate CT and disciplinary learning (eg embedding CT within a science or mathematics activity) The facilitator will share a set of “elements” developed by a national team of more than 30 CT thought leaders funded by the NSF to develop a framework for CT from a Disciplinary Perspective These elements, based on activities conducted by computational scientists, focus on what CT allows us to do better when engaged in disciplinary learning and provide a different “lens” through which to explore CT Three examples include: Understanding systems, Innovating with computational representations, and Designing solutions that leverage computational power/resources Discussion questions: • What opportunities are afforded to teachers when they adopt these elements as a framework for Computational Thinking within their discipline(s)? • What challenges will teacher face when adopting these elements? and • How will adopting these elements impact CT assessment?
Presider: Laurie Sharp, West Texas A&M University