Learning to program is not just about learning how to write more commands in a language or developing mathematical skills. In order to learn to program efficiently, one must first of all learn how to solve problems creatively.
All of this can be encapsulated under the term: computational thinking. This, in turn, we can detail to four skills:
- Decomposition – breaking down a problem into smaller factors;
- Pattern recognition – looking for and pointing out common features for different elements;
- Pattern abstraction – finding links to help similar problems;
- Algorithm design – designing a ready-made solution that will take us step by step closer to our goal.
We are improving these skills through various Knowla activities. Below you will find some examples.
A planet full of programming – Planet Pi
Applications:
- Space Odyssey
- Code with patterns
- Color code
All of the mentioned applications support the improvement of computer thinking skills. They allow independent pattern finding and creative approaches to a problem. They make it possible to learn from mistakes in pursuit of a goal.
Read more about Planet Pi – https://knowla.eu/pl/planety/planeta-pi/
Space Odyssey
An application whose goal is to set the elements so that Pixel collects all the ships from the board. Each type of elements has a different set of features and characteristics.
It will be perfect as an introduction to learning all computer thinking skills. From decomposing a problem into individual elements, to finding solutions that can be used on different boards (creating strategies for action in this application), to just laying out the algorithm that leads to the solution of this puzzle.
Code with patterns
It is necessary to find the pattern and complete it in the second part of the picture.
You can find a similar activity in Draw light by shape – Planet Contrast.
Code with colors
Among the numbers written out in a square, spot the image and color it accordingly
You can find a similar activity in Draw by Numbers/Letters – Legend – Planet J.
Solve sudoku – Planet M
A well-known puzzle that also helps develop computer thinking. It teaches how to detect patterns and select strategies to solve the problem.
You can find similar activities in: Sudoku with emotions – Planet EMO, Solve sudoku – Planet Contrast.
Break the code – Planet Dj
An application in which you have to find the pattern encoded with pictures and colors to then read the hidden word.
Connect the dots – Planet Spe
Connect the dots in such a way as to discover a pattern. It can support learning to find patterns and connections between elements.
Lay the road applications
- Program the way – Planet Spe/Contrast
- Code the way – Planet Spe/Contrast
- Lay the road – Planet Hopsa
- Go through the maze – Planet Smart
In each of the above applications, you need to arrange a suitable route from point A to point B, taking into account certain obstacles and constraints. The tasks do not have to have one correct solution.
These are applications that foster the learning of algorithmization, that is, setting up step-by-step instructions to lead to a predetermined goal.
Read more about computer thinking: https://wydawnictwo.wsei.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MYŚLENIE-KOMPUTACYJNE.pdf
