Exploring Women's Contributions to Computational Thinking Using Epistemic Network Analysis

• In Event: Fairmont Roundtable Session Six
  In Roundtable Session: Exploring and Promoting Computational Thinking (Table 11)

Abstract

This exploratory study explores how an all-women team elicits different aspects of computational thinking when solving a purposeful and meaningful model-eliciting activity (MEA) asking to develop an algorithm for a computer program. We used Situated Expectancy Value Theory as our theoretical lens to study each team participant’s utility subjective task value in their discourse related to different aspects of computational thinking. Epistemic Network Analysis was our tool to analyze and identify patterns in each participant’s discourse when solving. We found that all three women successfully elicited computational thinking. Each one gave value to the task, confirmed by their engagement in finding the solution to the MEA, and found utility value in looking for the best solution to the problem presented.

Authors

• Beatriz Alejandra Galarza Tohen, University of Texas - San Antonio
  Presenting Author

• Guadalupe Carmona, University of Texas at San Antonio
  Presenting Author

• Gonzalo Martinez-Medina, The University of Texas at San Antonio
  Presenting Author