Using Grey-Based Mathematical Equations of Decision-Making as Teaching Scaffolds: From an Unplugged Computational Thinking Activity to Computer Programming

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Using Grey-Based Mathematical Equations of Decision-Making as Teaching Scaffolds: From an Unplugged Computational Thinking Activity to Computer Programming
Language: English
Authors: How, Meng-Leong, Looi, Chee-Kit
Source: International Journal of Computer Science Education in Schools. Apr 2018 2(2).
Availability: International Journal of Computer Science Education in Schools. 83 Dollis Road, London N3 1RD, UK. 2-mail: info@ijcses.org; Web site: http://www.ijcses.org
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 16
Publication Date: 2018
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Descriptors: Mathematics Instruction, Equations (Mathematics), Scaffolding (Teaching Technique), Decision Making, Computation, Thinking Skills, Programming, Problem Solving, Mathematical Models, Computer Science Education, Coding
ISSN: 2513-8359
Abstract: Computational Thinking (CT) is pervasive in our daily lives and is useful for problem-solving. Decision-making is a crucial part of problem-solving. In the extant literature, problem-solving strategies in educational settings are often conveniently attributed to intuition; however, it is well documented that computer programmers might even have difficulty describing about their intuitive insights during problem-solving using natural language (such as English), and subsequently convert what has been described using words into software code. Hence, a more analytical approach using mathematical equations and descriptions of CT is offered in this paper as a potential form of rudimentary scaffolding, which might be useful to facilitators and learners of CT-related activities. In the present paper, the decision-making processes during an unplugged CT activity are delineated via Grey-based mathematical equations, which is useful for informing educators who may wish to explain to their learners about the various aspects of CT which are involved in the unplugged activity and simultaneously use these mathematical equations as scaffolds between the unplugged activity and computer code programming. This theoretical manuscript may serve as a base for learners, should the facilitator ask them to embark on a software programming activity that is closely associated to the unplugged CT activity.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2018
Accession Number: EJ1207403
Database: ERIC
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