Post by ACM WAP Moderator on Mar 28, 2021 12:43:21 GMT 8
Title: Teaching Design Thinking in Data Science Curriculum
Authors: Samar Swaid and Taima Suid
Country: United States
Abstract:
Computational Thinking is realized as one of most important competencies and the fourth skill that every child should comprehend. Computational Thinking (CT) is constructed as an essential skill for the 21st century that draws on data representation, algorithmic design, and pattern recognition. Even though there are several attempts to introduce CT to children, no project was developed considering the special interests of the students target population. In this paper, we describe the STEPP-UP, (Science, Technology, and Engineering Preparatory Program for Under-Presented) that is developed to provide middle school students with an opportunity to engage in a hands-on learning experience focused on the elements of CT via coding sessions. Unlike others who applied programs of “One Size Fits All”, we have developed our curriculum and teaching modules considering the interests of our students, to end up with hand-on activities focused on pets, females in football, and storytelling for cooking recipes. The assessment methodology applied included design-scenarios, paper-assessments, and learner-documentation. To ensure parents’ awareness and approval of the assessment process, consent forms were obtained at the beginning of the program. Our findings from the evaluation phase indicate that the students have increased knowledge of Computational Thinking and its applications for problem solving.
Authors: Samar Swaid and Taima Suid
Country: United States
Abstract:
Computational Thinking is realized as one of most important competencies and the fourth skill that every child should comprehend. Computational Thinking (CT) is constructed as an essential skill for the 21st century that draws on data representation, algorithmic design, and pattern recognition. Even though there are several attempts to introduce CT to children, no project was developed considering the special interests of the students target population. In this paper, we describe the STEPP-UP, (Science, Technology, and Engineering Preparatory Program for Under-Presented) that is developed to provide middle school students with an opportunity to engage in a hands-on learning experience focused on the elements of CT via coding sessions. Unlike others who applied programs of “One Size Fits All”, we have developed our curriculum and teaching modules considering the interests of our students, to end up with hand-on activities focused on pets, females in football, and storytelling for cooking recipes. The assessment methodology applied included design-scenarios, paper-assessments, and learner-documentation. To ensure parents’ awareness and approval of the assessment process, consent forms were obtained at the beginning of the program. Our findings from the evaluation phase indicate that the students have increased knowledge of Computational Thinking and its applications for problem solving.