Connecting a Community Through Computational Thinking and Robotics

Graphical Abstract

Abstract

Learn about a four-year teacher professional development program to support middle and high school content-area teachers in infusing computational thinking into their disciplinary teaching.

Keywords:

• Informal Education
• Computer Science
• Equity
• Inquiry
• STEM
• Technology

Conclusion

Bhonsle’s work showcases the power of using computational thinking and computer science education as a tool for connecting communities. Building on her knowledge of CT and her experiences in infusing CT into her science curriculum, Bhonsle created a program that raised awareness of the importance of CT and CS education within her community, built a pipeline of students interested in CT and CS, and created lasting change in regard to access and opportunity to participate in CT and CS. Most importantly, her work provided students with opportunities to imagine new possible futures where computer science plays a key role in shaping their postsecondary education and career options.

This work illustrates the power of professional learning experiences that center teacher autonomy and expertise. While Infusing Computing was originally designed to build a community of content area teachers to support CT infusion into content area, the IC Partner Grant program afforded teachers the opportunity to shape their own projects that were responsive to the needs of their students and communities. As Bhonsle’s project demonstrates, teachers recognized the promise in building synergistic connections among school-based CT learning, out-of-school learning, and their communities. As educators within and across formal and informal learning environments envision and implement their own CT and CS education programs, they also create more authentic and meaningful opportunities for learners to develop essential 21st-century skills.

Acknowledgments

This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation under Grants No. 1742332 and 1742351.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Robin Jocius

Robin Jocius is an associate professor at The University of Texas at Arlington in Arlington, Texas.

Jennifer Albert

Jennifer L. Albert is Director of the STEM Center at The Citadel - Zucker Family School of Education in Charleston, South Carolina.

Rachana Bhonsle

Rachana Bhonsle is a science educator and robotics coach at Colleton County School District in Walterboro, South Carolina.

Deepti Joshi

Deepti Joshi is an associate professor at The Citadel - Swain Family School of Science and Mathematics in Charleston, South Carolina.

W. Ian O’Byrne

W. Ian O’Byrne is an associate professor at the College of Charleston in Charleston, South Carolina.

Melanie Blanton

Melanie Blanton is a doctoral student at Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas.