Researching the Integration of CT Readiness for All at the Elementary School Level
Project Director:
Funded by:
NSF Division of Research on Learning, CS for All: Research and RPPs program
Focus Area:
Education Workforce & SystemsElementary & Secondary EducationSTEM Education & Workforce Development
Region:
United States
Duration:
2022-Present
Challenge
Computational thinking (CT), which includes pattern recognition, abstraction, and testing to solve problems is key to successful math learning, problem solving, and career readiness. While CT skills can be built in age-appropriate ways in elementary grades, elementary schools need support to foster students’ CT skills and to make sure learning experiences for students are high quality, coherent, and effective.
The EDC project Researching the Integration of CT Readiness for All at the Elementary School Level is creating tools to support schools and districts in examining their current CT teaching and learning experiences as well as developing plans for creating new experiences.
Key Activities
The project is carrying out the following activities:
- Conduct research to investigate the planning process and teacher professional development required to incorporate CT as part of the elementary school curricula
- Gather data about professional development opportunities, student learning, teacher and school leader surveys, and other artifacts of teaching CT
- Explore students’ access to high-quality CT instruction
Our Impact
- The long-term goal of this work is to improve the sustainability of teaching CT and to increase student readiness and interest in CT.
