Computational thinking involves solving problems, designing systems, and understanding human/technological behaviour, by drawing on the concepts fundamental to computer science (Wong, 2006). Students are given the opportunity to discover the world of discipline, its theories, concepts and conceptual frameworks (Laurillard, 2012). Computational thinking such as coding can enhance student centred thinking because it aims to develop learner autonomy and independence. The student is being guided through formal descriptions of the program and assessing different ways in creating the desired outcome. Coding is simply creating a course of yes or no classifications for the computer to perform. Although a simple concept, coding entails interpreting and synthesizing, and has the ability to enhance critical thinking. Computational thinking can prepare students for the digital age as it includes a range of mental tools that reflect on everyday life/workplace requirements.
https://blockly-games.appspot.com/maze
Coding in Learning Environments:
Coding is useful in a school environment because it helps the learner focus on further developing and understanding skills as well as enable students to describe smaller components of complex systems which is useful in all curriculum areas (NESA, n.d). Traditional roles of a teacher involve being able to present, inform, explain, guide and advise students of the curriculum by assessing certain resources. Coding goes in line with this pedagogy as it has the same outcome in students. When students learn, similar to when they code, they learn by doing, and they learn through experience. The learner adapts their action to the task goal and uses their results as a way to improve without teacher intervention (Laurillard, 2012).
Coding is a great tool to introduce to students. Coding helps students because it enhances motivation and curiosity, predicating what action is needed to achieve a result, comparing the results of their actions and adjusting their next action accordingly (Laurillard, 2012). An example of how this can be introduced in a classroom is through Modding. Modding refers to the act of modifying hardware, software and video games to achieve bespoke specifications. Students can edit the code of ‘Europa Universlais IV’ (a video game) to reflect feature of the Roman Empire (or whatever they wish – which is perfect for enhancing creativity!).
Introducing Coding into Learning:
There are a range of easy to use coding programs to help familiarise your students with coding.
Try these to get them started!
Micro bit is a creative and awesome device for making all sorts of cool creations from robots to musical instruments – the creative possibilities are endless. This palm sized device is full of features like LED lights, programmable buttons, motion detection and even Bluetooth connection to interact with other devices and the Internet
Here is a short video of me playing scissors, paper, rock after configuring microbit to show those symbols in LED lights.
Bibliography
Laurillard, D. (2012). Chapter 5 – What it takes to teach. Learning through Practise. (pp. 162-81). NY: Routledge. 162-165
NESA (n.d). Digital Technologies and ICT Resources. Available at: http://educationstandards.nsw.edu.au/wps/portal/nesa/k-10/learning- areas/technologies/coding-across-the-curriculum
Wing, J. M. (2006). Computational thinking. Communications of the ACM, 49(3), 33- 35. http://dl.acm.org.simsrad.net.ocs.mq.edu.au/citation.cfm?doid=1118178.1118215
All videos and photos are my own
Emerging Technology in Education E-Portfolio 
Great post Dajana, I love your insights into implementing coding as to allow for learner autonomy and critical thinking skills. I like how you state coding is simply creating a series of yes or no classifications, however still allows the development of critical thinking skills through the processes of abstraction and decomposition – I feel this highlights the power of coding to create 21st Century citizens. I am interested in the concept of Modding in the classroom as it also encourages for creativity. Did you come across any specific applications of Modding in your KLA? I certainly noticed there was a lack of information out there for us science teachers. How do you think we as teachers that have not grown up in the same digital world as our students can prepare ourselves to educate and extend their knowledge and capacity in the digital world?
Best of luck in your educational endeavours!
Dana
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