ICT Educators NSW March Conference

According to the CSTA1, Computational thinking is a problem-solving process that includes (but is not limited to) the following characteristics:

▪ Formulating problems in a way that enables us to use a computer and other tools to help solve them
▪ Logically organizing and analyzing data
▪ Representing data through abstractions such as models and simulations
▪ Automating solutions through algorithmic thinking (a series of ordered steps)
▪ Identifying, analyzing, and implementing possible solutions with the goal of achieving the most efficient and effective combination of steps and resources
▪ Generalizing and transferring this problem-solving process to a wide variety of problems

These skills are supported and enhanced by a number of dispositions or attitudes that are essential dimensions of CT. These dispositions or attitudes include:
▪ Confidence in dealing with complexity
▪ Persistence in working with difficult problems
▪ Tolerance for ambiguity
▪ The ability to deal with open-ended problems
▪ The ability to communicate and work with others to achieve a common goal or solution

In this workshop, participants will see how the theory of computational thinking is put into practice by walking through an example of creating an application from conception to completion. They will be introduced the basics of programming including variables, control structures, data structures, syntax and app tools.

1. http://www.csta.acm.org/Curriculum/sub/CurrFiles/472.11CTTeacherResources_2ed-SP-vF.pdf