Computational Thinking Meets Student Learning Extending the ISTE Standards

This guide to the ISTE Standards for Educators: Computational Thinking Competencies will help educators incorporate CT in their curriculum to deepen student learning.

Computational thinking (CT) is a powerful ingredient for solving ambiguous, complex and open-ended problems by drawing on principles and practices central to computer science (CS). CT is at the core of CS and is a gateway to sparking student interest and confidence in learning CS.

The ISTE Standards for Educators: Computational Thinking Competencies were created to inspire every educator to add more computational thinking into their core problem-solving strategies. These competencies augment and home in on the competencies embedded in the ISTE Standards for Students and Educators.

The information in this guide will provide a framework and structure to build creative learning opportunities in CT and increase students' ability to adapt to unfamiliar challenges, allowing for more success with innovative lesson plans.

This booklet contains:

• An overview of computer science and computational thinking and how they interact.
• Examples from across the subject/grade spectrum, including kindergarten reading, third grade math, sixth grade science and 10th grade social studies.
• Ideas for adding CT to lessons to enhance the knowledge base of students, letting them build the skills and confidence to persist when unexpected obstacles arise.
• Reflection questions and tips to help educators integrate CT into their lessons.
• Explanation of how the CT competencies complement the ISTE Standards for Educators.