Computational Thinking?

    After reading “Computational Thinking: A Digital Age Skill for Everyone”, I strongly agree with the idea of computational thinking used in the educational system. Computers are being used as tools to solve problems and then also to find answers to questions in the classroom. I did not have computers in my classrooms as a child, and I do feel it would have been helpful when trying to go beyond the textbook. Teachers are looking to use computational thinking in their classrooms but are unable to do so because it is so "new" and there are no rules yet. 
    Computers and technology are taking over the classroom, and the students of the future are going to be extremely skilled in this department. It is going to be useful for them when they are job searching or taking college courses later on in life. The idea of computational thinking still needs some research and experience, as it has not yet been fully demonstrated. Having a computer by oneself at all times, in order to answer questions right and to expand the mind, could end up being very useful. 
   One problem that could arise from this though is the situation where students are depending on the computer at all times. It is important for us to be able to use our minds when needed, because we will not "always" have a computer or peace of technology by our side. Students also need to be able to decide at which times it will be more beneficial to look up things on the computer, versus looking in a book or elsewhere. In conclusion, I do feel it is important to use computational thinking in the classroom, as long as it is used at appropriate times. 


-Sarah


Barr, D, and J. Harrison, and L. Conery. (2011). Computational Thinking: A Digital Age
Skill for Everyone. Learning and Leading with Technology, 38 (6), pp. 20-23.