Computational Thinking

Programming concepts Logic structures Sequencing -an action, or event, leads to the next ordered action in a predetermined order. Selection/decision –(if…then…) a question is asked, and depending on the answer, the program takes one of two courses of action, after which the program moves on to the next event. Conditionals –Referring to an action that takes place only if a specific condition is met. Loops - the program asks a question, and if the answer requires an action, it is performed and the original question is asked again until the answer is such that the action is no longer required. 

Programming concepts Functions - a named section of a program that performs a specific task. Can be a function, which returns a value, and a procedure, which performs some operation but does not return a value. Events - An action or occurrence detected by a program. Events can be user actions, such as clicking a mouse button or pressing a key, or system occurrences, such as running out of memory.

It’s not just about creating code Computational thinking is a way of solving problems, designing systems, and understanding human behavior that draws on concepts fundamental to computer science. Free course for educators from Google https://computationalthinkingcourse.withgoo gle.com/course?use_last_location=true   Free toolkit from ISTE to get others on board https://www.iste.org/explore/articledetail?art icleid=152

Computational thinking (CT) 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

Coding without a computer Give directions to get to the ________ in the museum using only the following commands: FWxx – forward xx steps BWxx – backward xx steps LTxx – left turn xx degrees RTxx – right turn xx degrees IF xx THEN xxx