Computational-Thinking Moves as Scaffolds: Promoting Collective Knowledge Advancement Among STEM Students in Higher Education

• In Event: AERA Virtual Poster Session 9
  In Poster Session: Connecting Learning Systems Through Technology

Abstract

We examined a knowledge-building environment mediated by Knowledge Forum® (KF), enriched with students’ computational-thinking moves to advance collective knowledge. Thirteen STEM students in higher education studying Education and Modern Technology participated working in opportunistic groups. Students first engaged in collective inquiries on KF and then constructed computational-thinking moves, which were put on KF for visualization and shared inquiry. These computational-thinking moves were adapted as KF scaffolds, followed by Collective-Thinking Maps using learning analytics. Quantitative analysis shows collective knowledge advancement and changing trajectories over time. Qualitative analysis reveals how students advanced collective knowledge using computational-thinking moves. This study offers insights into developing computational-thinking competencies through learning analytics and sheds light on using students’ computational-thinking moves to advance collective knowledge.

Authors

• Xueqi FENG, Southern University of Science and Technology

• Carol K. Chan, University of Hong Kong

• Jianhua Zhao

• Kun Liu, Southern University of Science and Technology

• Jingmin Miao, Southern University of Science and Technology