Publication

Teaching Computational Thinking Patterns in Rural Communities

Description

In this chapter you will learn how a community college in rural Wyoming is implementing professional development resources in Computer Science and computational thinking skills for middle and high school teachers in their communities. The objective of the community college was to build relationships with schools to teach Computer Science concepts and computational thinking skills in the classroom. In this day and age, many people young and old are spending time on playing games or simulations. Why not teach Computer Science concepts and computational thinking skills through gaming and simulations? The project included teaching teachers about computational thinking patterns when teaching their students computer gaming and simulation creations. The creation of computer games and simulations requires algorithmic, critical thinking, problem-solving, and computational thinking skills. Teachers were taught what computational thinking patterns are, how to teach their students about computational thinking patterns, and how to create computer games and simulations stressing computational thinking skills. The teacher progress is measured by recorded observations, completed student projects, and surveys.

Publications

Author and publisher information is provided below. Note that many publishers charge a fee or membership for full access. Permission/access must be requested through the publisher or author directly.

PUBLICATION DETAILS

Type
Book chapter
Author
Carla Hester Croff
Publisher
Springer
Topic(s)
Computational Thinking
Cultural Relevance, Equity, and Diversity
STEM Career Opportunities and Workforce Development
Youth Motivation and Interests in STEM
Publication Year
2017
Additional Disciplines
Computer Science - computer hardware
Computer Science - gaming and simulations
Computer Science - general skills and mathematics
Computer Science - multimedia - audio, video and animation
Computer Science - programming
Computer Science - web development
Engineering - robotics