Analysis of “computational thinking”: An educational approach
Supporting Agencies
- Consejería de Educación, juventud y Deporte de la Comunidad Autónoma de Madrid y el Fondo Social Europeo de la Unión Europea
Abstract
The term “computational thinking” emerged fifteen years ago and has world-wide become popular as a tendency in the pre-university educational scope. Its looseness makes difficult to hold a debate on its curricular role, a lack which is especially severe in Spain. The article aims at contributing to clarifying the meaning of “computational thinking” and its educational implications. We conducted a qualitative content analysis, using the definitions provided by a selection of outstanding authors and institutions as primary materials. Three aspects were analyzed: definition, features and elements, and scope of knowledge. We have found two common components: the reference to a “mental activity” and the inclusion of programming skills. However, the definitions differ in the inclusion of other elements, which can be classified as knowledge, attitudes or competences. The article discusses the consequences of a definition based on a “mental activity” rather than educational constructs. We conclude that the debate on pre-university computing education should be based on a more precise terminology, as well as current body of knowledge in pedagogy, computing and didactics of computing.
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