Week 7

WOW! Khan Academy is defiantly a resource I will be using in my classroom. Honestly, it has taken me a while to use my mathematical skills in cooperating with the task. Drawing basics and Coloring tutorials are basically fantastic resources to use when entering the Khan Academy, the tutorials to begin the process, help learners understand visually the task and process they are teaching. I did the drawing basics and it has helped me in a way with my logical thinking and my mathematical skills, which I have always, have had difficulties with.

“Computational thinking (CT) involves a set of problem-solving skills and techniques that software engineers use to write programs that underlie the computer applications you use such as search, email, and maps.” (Google, 2015).

The specific techniques include:

·      Decomposition: Creating a step-by-step process of a task or problem.

·      Pattern Recognition: Making predictions.

·      Pattern Generalization and Abstraction: Determine the laws, or philosophy that cause these patterns.

·      Algorithm Design: Expand the directions to solve related tribulations and duplicate the method.

I then completed the "thinking for myself" activity. I thought this was a wonderful resource to show students and see their ability with Algorithms and Abstractions.  I did have a challenge when it came to the introduction, with the machine. It took me many attempts and I am still trying to figure it out.

Reference:

Barr, V., & Stephenson, C. (2011). Bringing computational thinking to K-12: what is Involved and what is the role of the computer science education community? doi:10.1145/1929887.1929905

Google. (2015). Exploring Computational Thinking. Retrieved from  https://www.google.com/edu/resources/programs/exploring-computational-thinking/