Preparing Teachers to Teach Computational Thinking: State of the Art and Future Directions

• In Event: AERA Poster Session 13
  In Poster Session: Division K Section 1 Poster Session 1

Abstract

This paper provides a synthesis of 18 empirical studies on preparing teachers to teach computational thinking. Computational thinking, a concept developed by Jeannette M. Wing in 2006, denotes the ability to apply essential concepts in computer science, such as abstraction and decomposition, to solve problems. The prerequisite to integrate CT into general education is that teachers are prepared for teaching CT in their classes. According to the reviewed articles, teachers still tend to hold superficial understanding of CT; instructional interventions have been explored but no substantial results have been achieved. At last, we identify the following three challenges existed in preparing teachers for CT education: unclear definition of CT, short intervention, and technology dependence.

Authors

• Changzhao Wang, University of Miami

• Ji Shen, University of Miami