As the school year ended last year, FWSU began to explore how computational thinking could impact student learning.
To kick off the new focus, a digital course was offered in which teachers could research strategies and methods to provide students with opportunities to engage in and learn new computational thinking skills across all disciplines. In a blended learning environment, leveraging on LMS, Schoology, teachers choose different learning paths designed as computational quests to earn experience. The course explored multiple concepts and capabilities using the Plan-Do-Study-Act Cycle for teachers to develop ideas and practice ways of envisioning computational thinking as part of their core instructional practice.
Next, this summer, BFA Summer Learning Days used the core concepts of computational thinking to have students expand their problem-solving skills through 4 weeks of hands-on learning.
As the new year started, the focus of this year’s digital learning continues to be computational thinking. Although it is connected to technology, the main idea is about thinking, not computers. Computational thinking is a fundamental skill for everyone, not just for computer scientists. It is important to realize that this applies to all subjects and grades. Computational thinking is for all students. It is the knowledge and skills that students need to know and be able to do by the time they graduate from secondary school.
As we move forward, other professional learning opportunities will be offered for staff to further develop these thinking skills.
Target 2 – Leadership: FWSU students and staff lead innovative, personalized learning opportunities, both locally and globally.
Action Step (3): Demonstrate learning habits, communication, and problem-solving skills necessary for collaborative learning and leadership
Indicator of Success: Student and staff leaders innovate and take risks when faced with new challenges.
The FWSU Story 