Computational Thinking and Robotics

Figure. https://digischoolglobal.com/computational-thinking

For this discussion, we were asked to find connections in the curriculum between computational thinking and robotics. Before my search, I wanted to learn more about computational thinking. Computational thinking is a method that allows us to solve complex problems and before a problem can be tackled, the problem itself and how it could be solved, need to be understood. In computational thinking, we need to understand the problem and develop possible solutions. These solutions can be presented through human instruction or involve expressing problems executed by a computer. In my search of the BC curriculum, I found connections between computational thinking and robotics in the subjects Computer Science 10, 11, & 12 and Electronics and Robotics 10. Through curriculum subject searches, I found computational thinking to be a component in Math, Computer Science, Computer Studies, Computer programming, ADST, Textiles and woodwork. Through my curriculum search on Robotics, it is a component in Computer Science 10,11,12, ADST, Engineering 11, 12, Robotics and Electronics and Robotics 10. In the BC curriculum students explore design thinking and making in ADST through cross-curricular activities to develop foundational mindsets and use computational thinking. Robotics and computational thinking are connected in several different subjects because students need computational thinking thought processes and required the ability to apply these skills in robotics. I feel computational skills are required in many subject areas and these skills are developed through the ADST, Design Thinking Process and Human-Centred Design and I can see the value and importance of developing these skills for students to have the skill sets to succeed in Computer science, Math and Robotics courses in high school.

References:

BBC. (n.d.). What is computational thinking? - introduction to computational thinking - KS3 computer science revision - BBC bitesize. BBC News. Retrieved December 8, 2021, from https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/zp92mp3/revision/1.

Computational thinking illustrated - codebc. (n.d.). Retrieved December 8, 2021, from https://codebc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/computational-thinking-illustrated.pdf.

Explore curriculum. Explore Curriculum | Building Student Success - B.C. Curriculum. (n.d.). Retrieved December 8, 2021, from https://curriculum.gov.bc.ca/curriculum/search.

less