A Design-Based Research Approach to Integrating Computational Thinking Into Elementary Science Teacher Education

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 9
  In Roundtable Session: Computational Thinking for Science Learning

Abstract

Integrating computational thinking (CT) into elementary science is essential for students to develop foundational understandings of CT within the sciences. Because science and computer science are challenging topics, it is imperative to research strategies to prepare elementary teachers to effectively integrate CT into science in alignment with the NGSS standards. We seek to understand how to support elementary teachers in building pedagogical knowledge about incorporating CT into elementary science education. After a professional development experience, we found that elementary teachers frequently developed lesson plans that operationalized CT practices in a way that did not align with CT frameworks. We suggest design changes to CT teacher education programs to inform teacher education around CT integration in science for elementary grades.

Authors

• Kelly Mills, Digital Promise Global

• Merijke Coenraad, University of Maryland - College Park

• Lautaro Cabrera, University of Maryland - College Park

• Heather Killen, University of Maryland - College Park

• Diane Jass Ketelhut, University of Maryland - College Park

• J. Randy McGinnis, University of Maryland