Coding in Education
Rational
What is computational thinking?
Computational thinking is the main driver of the Digital Skills Curriculum. It includes a number of characteristics and concepts such as logical ordering and analysis, making judgement through evaluations to create solutions using a series of ordered steps known as algorithms. This requires the skills of pattern recognition and decomposition, breaking down complexity and removing unnecessary detail also referred to as abstraction.
In addition, the Digital Skills Curriculum highlights problem-solving, data representation, generalization and modelling as key outputs of these skills.
The focus is not primarily on coding, but on computational thinking as preparation for coding and other digital skills.
Activity 2.1 Work through the content below
Activity 2.1 Work through the content below
LThe resources below provides more detail on the various concepts of Computational Thinking. As you work through the resources you can apply your knowledge in Activity 2.2
Activity 2.2 Match the Concept and Definition
Match the Computational Thinking concept with its explanation to show your understanding of Computational Thinking. Press the 'dustbin' to try delete and try again. (Please note that activities are not fully compatible with all mobile devices.)
Language
What coding language should be used?
In the previous section we learnt that a) coding is a vehicle for computational thinking; b) it forms part of the Digital Skills Curriculum; c) the application of skills obtained through programmes which include concepts of computational thinking and coding could enhance career opportunities for learners as the job market is transformed by the digital age.
Different methodologies can be used to learn these languages. Understanding the functionality before learning the actual line code is often recommended especially for younger learners. Hence, unplugged activities, drag and drop, block coding, and pseudo coding are available.
When using these functional coding options, it is important to ensure the link is made between these and line coding.
Activity 3.1 Watch the video below
Watch the the video below to complete the activities that follow.
All Videos
Source: https://edpuzzle.com/media/5cc5f8f45a48da40822bd209
Video Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=poJfwre2PIs:
Activity 3.2 Match the Coding Language with the Application Development
In the previous video, the presenter indicated that the process for selecting the right first coding language depends on the following key questions:
1) What is the job market trends?
2) What do you want to build?
3) The ease of learning
Often, in order to run an entire product such as a website, knowledge of CSS, HTML and Javascript are needed. However, if you have learnt one language, learning another would be easier.
Use the activity below to match the coding language with the end result/application development output. (Please note that activities are not fully compatible with all mobile devices.)
Activity 3.3 Work in pairs - Draw and explain
In the previous video, the presented illustrated and explain the difference between back end and front end coding languages. Work in pairs to practice how to explain this to your partner. You can make use of the interactive whiteboard below to illustrate your explanation.