What is Computational Thinking? A Skill the Next Generation Needs for Success
Imagine you bought an amazing, super comfortable armchair from IKEA. You came back home excitedly and laid out the parts before you to assemble. However, when you open the instruction manual, all you can do is stare at it in bewilderment.
To tackle such complex situations, you need to understand the problem and develop step-by-step solutions to resolve it. That’s what computational thinking is all about.
Computational thinking refers to a mindset centered on problem-solving. We often employ this skill even without realizing it, such as when crafting recipes, playing group sports, and comprehending Google Maps directions.
We can divide computational thinking into four constituent parts:
1. Decomposition
Breaking down an intricate problem into smaller, simpler parts.
For example, to avoid getting overwhelmed when cleaning up your room, you make a to-do list to make that colossal task easier.
2. Pattern recognition
Identifying similarities between the challenge at hand and any others you have faced before and looking for patterns within the problem to simplify it.
For example, when playing football, you check for patterns within the opponent’s strategy to make it easier to beat them.
3. Abstraction
Focusing on the ‘big picture’ and ignoring the specific, irrelevant details of the problem to develop a holistic solution.
For example, maps only focus on the essential information regarding different locations, such as stops, distance, and direction, and ignore the unnecessary specifics that a commuter doesn’t need.
4. Algorithms
Developing a sequence of steps to solve the problem effectively.
For example, for lunch, you write down a step-by-step recipe for a delicious Shepherd’s Pie to bake.
Why is Computational Thinking Important?
- Computational thinking is crucial due to the tech-geared nature of work today. As your kid grows up, they will discover a vast field of careers that involve the use of technology.
- Programming involves utilizing problem decomposition and algorithm development to create code that enables our computers to perform extraordinary functions.
Till a decade ago, a lot of the widgets we have at our disposal today – such as smartwatches that measure stress levels and heartbeat – wouldn’t exist if there was no computational thinking.
If your kids have a different professional/ vocational interest like the financial market, medical, public services, mechanical engineering, etc, they will still benefit substantially by developing a computational mindset.
That’s because most occupations in the 21st century are data-driven. Planning and forecasting sales require pattern recognition and generalization while developing a new product calls for the decomposition of an issue into smaller parts. Every job, from medicine to law, requires devising algorithms to resolve challenges.
Computational thinking doesn’t just enhance your kid’s career prospects but also makes them more perceptive, enabling them to handle day-to-day challenges easily. That’s why they should be taught the skill early on in their lives.
Contact us for flexible coding programs to teach kids crucial computational skills and enrich their lives for the better.