Module 5: Computational Thinking in the Primary School Classroom

[Pat Brennan]

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ASSIGNMENT

Part 1

• Create one prompt for a Computational Thinking activity suitable for a class of your choice from Junior-Infants to second class.
• You can use a book, story or movie as part of the prompt.
• Make sure to include a list of resources needed.
• Use slide 9 and 10 in the module presentation as a guide to help you with your prompt.

Part 2

• Read Review “The state of the field of computational thinking in early childhood education” pages 18-45 (Bers, M., A. Strawhacker and A. Sullivan, 2022)
• Write a reflective piece (minimum 100 words).
• Summarise the key findings and insights from the article, highlighting the importance of computational thinking in early childhood education.
• Share your thoughts on how early childhood educators can effectively integrate computational thinking into their teaching practice.

[yvonne Boylan]

Part 1: Prompt
Lesson idea prompt : Senior infants

Resources

Paper cups

Card

Blocks (wooded cuboid shapes)

Barbie doll

Timer

Story: Little Red Riding Hood

Little Red Riding Hood has just discovered her Grandma is a witch, she needs to get out of the forest as quickly as possible. The problem is, the forest has a river that has flooded, and Little Red Little Riding Hood needs to get past the river using a bridge. The bridge needs to be tall enough to make sure that the water doesn’t touch it, so at least two blocks high,(show blocks)  and strong enough for Red Riding Hood to walk across. Can you design the bridge in less than 10 minutes using card, blocks and cups?

The test will be that the bridge has to hold a doll the size of a Barbie up for 30 seconds

Final question: Can you help Little Red Riding Hood get across?

The children will be asked to build their bridges but will not be able to test them until the end.

Part 2 

The article highlights the important skills that developed through teaching coding in the early years. Noticeably, a lot of the skills mentioned are significant problem solving skills which can be used in other subjects, particularly Maths in future years. It is very important that children are taught how to use these skills from an early age, as they are transferable skills which will make them more independent learners that can adapt what they know and apply it in other settings. These skills are extremely useful for students, particularly the problem solving, puzzle solving types of activities. Many students can learn how to apply things they learn in certain contexts however they can lose confidence quickly when asked questions in slightly different ways, particularly in like Maths. I agree that these are complementary skills which work well alongside each other. Additionally, students may not find maths easy, but may thrive with these more digital activities. I would predict that for students who struggle with maths but enjoy these computational thinking tasks, their confidence may improve with other similar Maths activities, when they’ve experienced some success. Coding skills also integrate will with topics like shape, angles, algebra and with activities like mapping in SESE.  Computational thinking overall is a very important skill for children to continually develop, and the resources like bee bots, codebot, lightbot etc all offer a way to make these activities fun and interactive.  Overall  the article highlights the importance of these computational thinking tasks, particularly in the younger years. It’s also important to make coding less daunting and more accessible to students, and these types of activities manage to make coding tasks fun and engaging for students in the early years. The article also mentions the importance of family engagement and I agree that it would also be nice to demonstrate activities like the bee bots and similar robotic kits like sphere Indi to parents and caregivers, so that they could see and experience coding activities themselves. Coding is something that many people have no real understanding of and so this could be a very enjoyable and interesting activity for parents and caregivers to participate in.

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Michael Coughlan]

Great lesson plan and reflections. The Little Red Riding Hood bridge-building activity sounds like a fantastic way to engage senior infants in problem-solving and teamwork. Teaching these skills early on helps students become independent learners and adaptable problem solvers. I also agree that involving parents in these activities can promote coding and make it a shared, enjoyable experience.

[Suzanne Behan]

Part 1

For all the children who did not win a golden ticket, use the materials provided to design your  favourite scene and character from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Resources: card board, glitter, scissors, glue, twistable’s, googly eyes, recyclable materials such as bottle tops, string, old clothes

Part 2

The research has demonstrated that computational thinking is an essential skill needed in the 21st century. The skills include recognition of patterns, conceptualisation, planning, and problem solving as well as abstract thinking to find a solution to a problem. This article highlights the importance of introducing these skills in early childhood to ensure they are developed thorough out the formative years.

It is vital that countries introduce CT experiences into the classroom so that children are ready for active participation in the digital jobs market.  It is highlighted that there are barriers in translating these skills in the classroom setting, including but not limited to the budget required, instructional time as well as teachers not being trained in the area. This needs to be addressed to ensure educators better understand the classroom of today. Despite studies claiming far reaching benefits of integrating CT skills into the classroom, the research is in its infancy.  As technology becomes a reality of society today, it is important that the mathematics curriculum encompasses the CT skills too. The article discussed the idea that children learn best through the medium of play to the point where if the lessons are creative they won’t even know that they are learning. When programming is taught with a playful approach, children are not afraid to make mistakes.

The article illustrated that you should get children to create something easily, then over time the project can become more difficult with a variety of learning styles this will broaden and develop their skills. Within this article many types of programmes are mentioned but there may be a cost associated with them. Not all schools will have the funding to invest large amounts of money in these items. Teachers can use lunch breaks to put the likes of Numberbots on for children as they eat which are especially designed media tv to promote computational thinking.

Programmable robotics kits allow young children to explore the foundations of computer science in a hands-on way. If your school does not have the funding for expensive resources unplugged activities can be an excellent way to acquire the computational skills.  These can include engaging games and puzzles that use cards, string, crayons and lots of running around. The idea of a ‘makerspace’ is becoming more common place in school settings with children learning perseverance, creativity and persistence through a dedicated space.  It is important to invest in CT tools that support children as creators with technology rather than as consumers of technology.

Findings from a recent study of 21 countries in Europe reported that coding is already part of the curriculum at a national, regional, or local level in 16 countries. In the Asia-Pacific region, countries such as Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and China have all launched national curricular reforms to address the current movement in CT education with Australia and New Zealand working on changing their curricula to include computer science and digital technologies. Findings from the article discussed the idea of linking with parents to explore ways in which parents can help foster CT skills through every day play. In the younger years it is vital to select tools for children who are unable to read and write.

In conclusion, the theories and research reviewed and analysed point towards childhood as being a critical time in developing natural curiosity and fostering CT skills and there is a growing demand on curriculum developers to incorporate these skills in the schools.

 

[Michael Coughlan]

The creative activity based on “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” is a great way to engage children in a fun and imaginative project. I agree with the importance of computational thinking (CT) skills in early childhood. linking CT into the curriculum is essential for preparing students for the digital age, and overcoming barriers such as budget constraints and teacher training is in my opinion very important. Placing emphasis on play-based learning and accessible activities can make CT more approachable and enjoyable for young learners.

[Áine Madden]

Part 1:

Create a raft so the billy goats can avoid the troll under the bridge.

Resources: goat figure, basin of water, lollipop sticks, tape, tinfoil, cardboard, pipe cleaners, blue tack, card, paper straws,

Part 2:

Key Findings and Insights
Definition and Importance of CT: The authors define CT as a set of problem-solving skills that involve understanding and using computational concepts. They emphasize that CT is not just about coding but also about thinking in a structured way to solve problems.

CT and Early Learning: The review reveals that integrating CT in early childhood can lead to significant cognitive and social benefits. Young children develop persistence, collaboration, and critical thinking skills, which are transferable to other areas of learning and life.

Pedagogical Approaches: Various pedagogical strategies are discussed, such as the use of tangible programming tools, robotics, and age-appropriate software. These tools help make abstract CT concepts concrete and accessible for young children.

Challenges and Barriers: The article identifies several challenges, including a lack of teacher training, insufficient resources, and the misconception that CT is too complex for young children. These barriers need to be addressed to effectively integrate CT into early childhood education.

Research and Evidence: Empirical studies cited in the article demonstrate the feasibility and benefits of introducing CT at a young age. Evidence shows that children as young as four can grasp basic CT concepts and enjoy engaging in CT-related activities.

Integration of CT in Early Childhood Education
To effectively integrate CT into early childhood education, educators can:

Professional Development: Invest in comprehensive training programs to equip teachers with the knowledge and skills needed to teach CT. Workshops, online courses, and collaborative learning communities can be effective.

Curriculum Design: Develop and implement a curriculum that includes CT concepts aligned with developmental stages. Integrating CT with other subjects, such as math and literacy, can create a holistic learning experience.

Use of Technology: Incorporate age-appropriate technological tools, such as programmable robots and interactive apps, to make learning CT engaging and hands-on. Ensure that these tools are accessible and user-friendly.

Play-Based Learning: Leverage the natural inclination of young children towards play. Designing CT activities that are fun and playful can foster a positive attitude towards learning and exploration.

Parental Involvement: Encourage parents to participate in their children’s CT education. Providing resources and organizing family coding events can help reinforce learning at home.

Reflection
Reflecting on the insights from the article, it is evident that CT holds immense potential for early childhood education. By fostering an environment that encourages exploration, creativity, and problem-solving, educators can lay a strong foundation for lifelong learning. Overcoming the challenges will require a concerted effort from educators, policymakers, and the community. However, the benefits of equipping young learners with CT skills far outweigh the difficulties, making it a worthwhile investment in their future.

[Michael Coughlan]

Thank you for your post. I certainly agree with your emphasis on the importance of computational thinking (CT) beyond just coding. It’s reassuring to see the focus on teacher training and parental participation. Despite current challenges, the long-term benefits for young learners make this a worthwhile investment.

[Fiona Nally]

Part 1.
Prompt – Little Bow Peep has lost her sheep..or has she? She has spotted three of her sheep but they are the other side of a river. They aren’t brave enough to swim back so Boo Peep needs to build a raft that will carry her over and back with her lost sheep.
They have a large blue square as the river. The sheep are 3 Harribo fried eggs, Boo Peep is a lolly pop. They have blue tak, lolly pop sticks, card, markers and scissors. They need to work as a team to design a raft big enough for all of them and stable enough to move across the card to the other side!

Part 2.
This article looks at the importance of introducing computational thinking into early childhood education. It looks at the benefits of computational thinking, how it can be integrated into the curriculum, the challenges it might pose and suggests some of the ways those obstacles may be overcome. The benefits are many; including peer to peer learning, problem solving, collaboration and fostering a Learn by doing approach.
In terms of integrating in ECE, CT goes beyond specific computer science fields. While there is a considerable overlap between CT and mathematical thinking in activities engaged in by the children, there are also opportunities for linking with literacy skills and STEAM where arts is included opens this up to allow for an integration of arts and crafts, literacy, music, and more with engineering and robotics.
The article also speaks to the importance of meaningful activities highlighting that research has shown that many of children’s best learning experiences come when they are engaged not simply in interacting with materials but in designing, creating, and inventing with them. This underlines the importance of inspiring children to become producers of their own creative, playful, and functional artefacts, rather than simply consumers of other people’s work.
Some of the challenges include gaps in teacher knowledge and the important of Initial teacher teaching plus CPD as professional development can help teachers better understand CT and how CT could be helpful in their classroom. It also talked of the ‘digital divide’ with prohibitive costs of some technology and lack of access with families from lower socio-economic backgrounds. They suggest a focus on unplugged CT curriculum in areas where the cost of other technologies is not feasible.
This is relevant in our school where access to technology is more limited for many families. However, CT can be integrated in many ways from basic robotics such as BeeBots or Sphero-Indy to Lego We do through to the many unplugged constructor challenges available as teaching resources. As play is fundamental to ECE, using CT fits within this with the emphasis on creating, communicating and collaborating.

[Michael Coughlan]

I love the creative plan you’ve designed for Little Bow Peep – it’s such a fun way to get kids working together and thinking critically.  Highlighting the overlap with other subjects and the benefits of hands-on learning is super. It is of course important to address issues like teacher training and access to technology, and I really like the way you introduced low-cost alternatives!!! Well done.

[Barra Cronin]

Part 1: 

After reading the story of ‘The Three Little Pigs’ to an infant class, the class could firstly complete a STEM challenge building the three houses from various materials (e.g. straw, lollipop sticks & lego blocks). Then using beebots, complete the route of the wolf visiting the various houses.

Resources:

• Houses completed from STEM challenge
• Beebots
• Direction cards
• Grid
• Costume of wolf for beebot

 

Part 2:

This research paper underscores the vital role of computational thinking (CT) in early childhood education. The key findings reveal that CT promotes critical skills such as problem-solving, logical reasoning, and creativity, laying a foundation for future academic success and adaptability in an increasingly digital world. CT in early education helps children develop a mindset conducive to understanding complex systems and tackling challenges methodically including algorithms, modularity, control structures, representation, hardware/software, the design process and debugging

To effectively integrate CT, early childhood educators should incorporate age-appropriate, engaging activities like interactive storytelling, hands-on building projects, and introductory coding games. Emphasising play-based and inquiry-driven approaches ensures that CT concepts are accessible and enjoyable. Additionally, providing educators with ongoing professional development and sufficient resources is crucial for building their confidence and competence in teaching CT, ultimately enriching the learning experiences of young children

[Michael Coughlan]

The combination of a STEM challenge and using beebots to navigate the wolf’s route is a fantastic way to make learning interactive and fun for the infants. Bringing together CT through play-based and inquiry-driven activities, as well as providing ongoing professional development for educators, are necessary steps to ensure these skills are accessible and enjoyable for young children.

[Lisa Margey]

Part 1 :Story prompt: Noah’s Ark – there is a flood and the students must create and design a plasticene boat to save the animals without sinking. Students are placed in groups of 3 and given a equal amount of plasticene and a basin of water . – their Learning Objective is to turn the plasticene into a floating boat that will hold the animals ( peas / plastic pegs ) , the boat that can hold /rescue the most animals / peas will succeed. Pupils observe and discuss each others techniques giving effective ,constructive peer feedback .

Part 2 :

Computational Thinking (CT) skills are essential to thriving in today’s academic and professional world. There has been a growing focus globally on fostering CT skills as well as on introducing computer programming concepts and languages beginning as early as Junior Infants and pre-primary school. Tools, curriculum, and frameworks to promote CT in the early years must be designed and implemented in ways that engage children who cannot yet read and write, who learn through play, and who have a short attention span and limited working memory but also strong natural curiosity. This paper  summarises  on the state of the field of CT as it relates to early learning and development, a time when young children are being introduced to foundational skills, such as literacy and numeracy, which can carefully be complemented by an exploration of CT. There is growing interest in integrating CT into early learning environments. Educators recognize its potential to enhance problem-solving skills and creativity. Various pedagogical approaches are used to introduce CT concepts, including playful activities, unplugged exercises, and programming tools designed for young learners. Teacher training is essential for successful CT implementation. Teachers  need support to integrate CT effectively into their teaching practices. Assessing CT skills in young children remains a challenge. Researchers are exploring innovative methods to evaluate CT competencies. Ensuring equitable access to CT education is crucial. Efforts to address disparities and promote inclusivity

[Michael Coughlan]

You’re absolutely right about the importance of computational thinking (CT) skills which is something I remind myself in my classroom. Introducing these skills early can really set a strong foundation for future learning. In my school we use ipads in our junior end and chromebooks in our senior school. Engaging young children through playful activities and programming tools tailored for their level is a smart approach. Teacher training and support are crucial for the effective integration of CT into the curriculum.

[Grace Coombes]

Part 1: Lesson Prompt:

Rapunzel has had a hair cut and she is trapped in her tower with no way to get out. Build a ladder to allow Rapunzel to leave her tower.

Part 2: Summary:

The text explores the role that computational thinking plays in Early Childhood education. The authors state that introducing young children to computational thinking skills can benefit children’s overall cognitive, social and emotional development and prepare them for a future in a digital age. The skills children learn by engaging with computational thinking activities introduce them to a way of thinking that lends itself to the digital age. By focussing on activities that promote problem solving, analytical thinking and creative expression at a young age, children build the foundational skills that they to approach tasks across the curriculum and into adulthood in careers including in the areas of computer science. Choosing developmentally appropriate tools are also important and educators should consider a variety of resources to cater to different learning styles and needs of children, the text outlines the various tools, resources and technologies that can be used to promote computational thinking skills including unplugged resources.

[Michael Coughlan]

Digital thinking is essential in Early Childhood education as it enhances cognitive, social, and emotional skills. I think by focusing on problem-solving and analytical activities prepares children for a digital future, benefiting their overall development. In my teaching, I use activities like creating simple mathematical equations or puzzles to develop these skills, ensuring they are age-appropriate and engaging.

[Aine O Broin]

Part 1:
Prompt: Goldilocks and the three bears
Goldilocks has just awoken to the bears opening the door. She must make it outside before the see her but she cannot use the stairs and the windows are too high to jump. She must attach the bedsheets together, head out the window and get as far away from the house as possible. The house will be a chair and the children will have paper (bedsheets), sticky labels and straws and must create a safe route for Goldilocks (a marble) to escape the house.

Part 2:
The research shows that computational thinking is an essential skill needed in the 21st century. The research shows that by introducing CT at an early stage, young children will develop collaboration skills, critical thinking, planning, problem solving skills that can be developed throughout life. It helps to develop a growth mindset allowing them to tackle challenges and develop creativity. Introducing CT concepts through age appropriate engaging activities, storytelling and coding games like unplugged activities as Beebot will be of greatest benefit. Resources and teacher training are essential for its success.

[Eimear Kelly]

Part 1

Prompt and Class: Charlotte’s Web studied by a 2nd Class

Charlotte has fallen from her web and needs assistance in getting back. Using the black and white chess board in the playground, pupils will be asked to move Charlotte from one side of the board to the other, and back to her web. Create a series of commands/steps for Charlotte to follow to allow her to arrive to her web safely. Extensions or challenges to this activity could include getting Charlotte there using the fewest number of commands, or Charlotte must pass obstacles such as a hay stack on her way back to the web or avoid predators in her path such as frogs or birds.

Materials: playground chess board, pen, paper, colours for colour coding

Part 2

The paper explores the importance of CT and an social-emotional development within young people. An interesting concept to delve into, as often times, children engaging with digital tools and gaming can be branded as being unsocial and engaging in solitary activities. In the learning environment, the paper highlighted the importance of those oppertunities for developing communication skills and collaboration between children and their shared application of CT for a common goal. The paper went on to illustrate integration of STEAM across curricular areas, not solely focusing on maths and science. Digital skills such as programming and coding were then likened to literacy and the learning of a new langugae, which certainly rings true for any teachers who have explored coding within their classrooms. The paper identified the importance for the introduction to this lanaguge and therefore these tools to be developed in early learners. It stated that in Finland, changes were made to their curricula to allow concepts of CT to be introduced before formal schooling, at the ECCE stage of a young child’s learning. The report also referred to the ever topical issue regarding current teachers lack of knowledge and being at the ‘sharp end of implementation’. Moreover, it recommended adequate and ongoing training for professionals to ensure for the accurate delivery of CT to young learners. The paper also identified tools for developing CT such as robotics, opened activites that encompass ‘low level, high ceiling’ <wide walls> approaches, oppertunities to play and create as well as unplugged activities. Overall, I feel this paper mirriors our experiences in Irish classrooms currently. The importance of introducing these skills as early as ECCE was thought provoking.

• This reply was modified 4 months, 2 weeks ago by Eimear Kelly.

[Róisín Maher]

Part One:

“Moana has the heart of Te Fiti and needs a boat to bring her back to her home of Motonui. Build a boat that will carry Moana, Maui and their chicken friend back home safely.

What are some things this boat will need to be?” (Ellicit ability to float and buoyancy). We could watch some videos on boats and how boats are made.

“You can explore the Maker Space for extra materials you might need.
You will need:
Glue Stick
Rubber Bands
14 lollipop sticks”

Part Two:

The review “The state of the field of computational thinking in early childhood education” by Bers et al. highlights the growing recognition of computational thinking (CT) as a crucial skill for young learners. The article underscores that CT extends beyond mere programming; it encapsulates problem-solving, critical thinking, and the ability to reflect on processes. Key findings suggest that early exposure to computational thinking not only fosters cognitive development but also enriches children’s creativity and collaboration skills. The authors emphasize the importance of engaging children in hands-on, play-based learning experiences that promote exploratory learning and experimentation.
To effectively integrate computational thinking into their teaching practice, early childhood educators can create a curriculum that incorporates playful, technology-rich environments. This can involve activities such as coding games, robotics, and collaborative projects that encourage problem-solving among peers. Educators should also prioritize fostering a mindset of inquiry, where children feel comfortable expressing their ideas and asking questions. By equipping themselves with knowledge about CT and utilizing relevant tools and resources, educators can cultivate an engaging learning atmosphere that prepares children for the demands of an increasingly digital future.

[Author]

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