«Computational Thinking Unplugged for Kids: Teaching Computing without the protagonist»
Christian BackmanFederal Institute of Education, Science and Technology Farroupilha
Abstract
Computers cause an impact in almost every single aspect of our lives, however, unfortunately, schools have not been quite able to keep up with this irreversible evolution. The simple use of technological apparatuses in the classroom does not guarantee the improvement of the learning process, however it can be the medium through which the students find the alternatives for the solution of complex problems. The Computational Thinking is a teaching approach that uses a diverse range of techniques derived from computers for the resolution problems combined with the new competencies of the 21st century (critical thinking, collaboration, etc.). In some cases is not possible to apply this approach due to insuficient equipments, unqualified teachers or other reasons. One way to allow kids to learn how digital equipments work and how to use it in their everyday life is through unplugged activities (without the use of computers).
Bio
Graduated in Information Systems at the Franciscan University (UNIFRA) and has a Master degree in Computer Science from the Catholic University of Pelotas (UCPEL) in Brazil. He is currently Professor at the Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology Farroupilha and is Specialist in Distance Learning and Doctoral Student in Computers in Education at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), also in Brazil.
