Further to some of our recent work in computer science education, we presented a paper in July at the 2015 British Human Computer Interaction Conference entitled: Developing Computational Thinking through Pattern Recognition in Early Years Education.
The abstract of the paper is below; you can read the full paper (or download a PDF) online:
Developing Computational Thinking through Pattern Recognition in Early Years Education
Ana C. Calderon, Tom Crick and Catherine Tryfona
Alongside recent UK initiatives on computing education, coupled with demands for the development of broader societal digital competencies, we propose that computational thinking skills can be taught to early years students and highlight a method for teaching a specific aspect, namely pattern recognition. Although our example might appear specific to this context, we identify how this could readily be extended to a broader class of educational settings, proposing an underlying pedagogical framework. Finally, a proof-of-concept prototype, corresponding to the implementation of the method, is highlighted.
(also see: Publications)
Digital, Data & Policy 