Welcome to Computer Science (CS) and Computational Thinking (CT)
Each of the modules below includes interactive content as well as PowerPoint slides. Unpack CS and CT concepts and find lesson plans for various ages.
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Course Introduction
The Introduction to Computer Science (CS) and Computational Thinking (CT) module differentiates between CS and CT and presents an overview of the foundational concepts underlying both fields: decomposition, pattern matching, abstraction, and algorithmic thinking.
View the Introduction to Computational Thinking content
Download PowerPoint slides for Introduction to Computational Thinking (2 MB)
Decomposition
Decomposition
The Decomposition module defines the concept of decomposition and illustrates how a problem can be broken (decomposed) into smaller logical structures, making that original problem more easily understood and solved.
Pattern Recognition
Pattern Recognition
An important problem-solving technique is the ability to realize that a new situation is similar to a previous one. This module explores how this idea can be formalized as pattern recognition and can be exploited in problem-solving.
Abstraction
Abstraction
A very important problem-solving technique is the ability to step back from a situation to see it from a broader perspective in which some details are purposely ignored in order to focus on aspects that are important. This module explores abstraction as a concept and as a mechanism for understanding and solving problems.
Algorithms
Algorithms
This module on algorithmic thinking explains and illustrates the specification of procedures or recipes of action to follow in solving problems.
Data and Privacy
Data and Privacy
There is no doubt that computing is changing the way we do everything, it also raises some serious ethical questions.
Data Representation and Cryptography
Data Representation and Cryptography
01001000 01100101 01101100 01101100 01101111, or for those of us that aren’t computers, hello! in binary code.
View the Data Representation and Cryptography content
Download the Data Representation and Cryptography PowerPoint slidse (1 MB)
Accessibility and Computers
Accessibility and Computers
All technology carries strengths and weaknesses, but some group feel these more than others. Because computers are used so widely, we must pay attention to how people with disabilities are affected.
View the Accessibility and Computers content
Download the Accessibility and Computers PowerPoint slides (472 KB)
Lesson Planning
Lesson Planning
Review strategies to construct your computational thinking lessons.
CS Activities and Lesson Plans PK-3
CS Activities and Lesson Plans PK-3
Ideas for lesson planning, classroom activities, and resources.
CS Activities and Lesson Plans Multi-age/AYA/Middle Childhood
CS Activities and Lesson Planning Multi-age/AYA/Middle Childhood
This module outlines a broad range of areas in which computational skills can be applied.
Explore CS Activities and lesson plans for Multi-age/AYA/Middle Childhood
Download
Download the zipped Canvas Export Package (23 MB) for upload to another LMS.
You can also use Canvas Commons to import into the modules into a Canvas course. In the Commons, search for “CSCT Modules” to find the course.
Have a suggestion?
If you have questions, comments, or concerns, feel free to reach out to project members directly at CSCT@MiamiOH.edu.
Content developed by:
- Todd Edwards (Miami University)
- Melissa Goodall
- James Kiper (Miami University)
- Debbie Jackson
- Norm Krumpe (Miami University)
- Krista Maxson (Ohio Department of Education)
- John Wiseman
- Barry Wittman
- Brian Yontz
Project managed by Sherrill Sellers (Miami University).
Special thanks go to Miami Online learning designers:
- Jennifer Culbertson
- Katherine Marusic
- Michael Stram