What is computational thinking for digital technologies?

Computational thinking enables students to express problems and formulate solutions in ways that means a computer (an information processing agent) can be used to solve them.

In this area, students develop algorithmic thinking skills and an understanding of the computer science principles that underpin all digital technologies. They become aware of what is and isn’t possible with computing, allowing them to make judgments and informed decisions as citizens of the digital world.

Students learn core programming concepts and how to take advantage of the capabilities of computers, so that they can become creators of digital technologies, not just users. They develop an understanding of how computer data is stored, how all the information within a computer system is presented using digits, and the impact that different data representations have on the nature and use of this information.

Further information on Computational Thinking and Designing and Developing Digital Outcomes can be found in the New Zealand Curriculum online. The following diagram illustrates the structure of the learning area:

What is Computational Thinking?

Resources:

Code.org: code.org

Scratch: scratch.mit.edu

CS Unplugged: csunplugged.org

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