Retooling Schools for Accelerated K-12 Computational Thinking and Mathematics Education

Computational Thinking as base for Math and CS

Non-profts for profits partnership

Modding with Math

Introduction

Computational Thinking (CT) includes the set of skills necessary for deconstructing complex problems, finding patterns in data, abstracting solutions, and designing algorithms and procedures for computers to act on data. CT is one of the most important skills in the 21st century and, given the trajectory of technology and computers, will increasingly become a necessity among all members of society [1-3]. According to the World Economic Forum’s “Future of Jobs” report” [4] the two top skills needed by employers in 2020 are Complex Problem Solving, and Critical Thinking.

Computational thinking playground for all

Polyup makes it possible to leverage existing school infrastructure to teach CT in a more direct and effective way as a strong foundation for students in both math and computer science. The platform is at its core a programming playground in the language of mathematics—a language that all students and their teachers are familiar with. Learning the foundations of CT and problem solving in a mathematical setting allows learners to engage with fundamental mathematics and computer science skills in an interactive, engaging, engaging, low-floor-high-ceiling environment.

Polyup’s highly engaging activities are comparable to other design-based, scaffolded learning platforms that have shown to aid in the development of CT skills [9]. Open authoring enables teachers and third parties to create their own activities or “Poly Machines” in alignment with standards and around specific learning goals, while allowing for pedagogical differences. These activities are at the core of our learning approach, and are designed to be highly engaging and exciting. Levels of engagement and learning are then measured and quantified, and analytic results from these measurements are looped back into the core activity, to reinforce the learning process