Computational Thinking and Robotics

A search of the following “terms” in BC’s curriculum of all types and grades K-9 came up with the following results:

“Computational thinking” was found in:

• Big Ideas in Mathematics 4
• Content in Applied Design, Skills and Technologies 6, 7 and 8

“Robotics” was found in:

• Content in Applied Design, Skills and Technologies 6, 7, 8, and 9

It’s smart for computational thinking to be included first as a big idea to be covered in a lower grade.  The fact that it is in the content of ADST for grades 6-8 is not surprising.  Students are able to better grasp and apply concepts as they mature.  The fact that robotics is included in content for grades 6-9 also makes sense.  The students can explore robotics while learning about computational thinking, and further extend their robotics exploration in grade 9.

Having taken some lessons and watched videos presented by CodeBC, I can see that computational thinking is applicable to all parts of life and can be explored at any age.  Starting earlier may set students up for greater success, especially with future problem solving.  However, it can be included in your practice without it being explicitly included in the curriculum.

The big question that these results raise is “If robotics appear under content in the BC Curriculum, why is it that there are still schools without robotics kits and teachers with expertise?”