Abstract
Computation is reshaping modern science and mathematics practices, but relatively few students have access to, or take, courses that adequately prepare them for the increasingly technological nature of these fields. Further, students who do study computational topics tend to not reflect the greater student body, with female and minority students being disproportionately underrepresented. To address these issues, we investigate the approach of embedding computational thinking content into required high school mathematics and science coursework. Using data from a 3-year implementation, we present results showing differences in attitudes towards computing by gender, while also finding similar gaps do not correlate with aptitude. Using pre/post mea sures, we then show female participants expressed improved confidence with computational thinking and interest in STEM careers. Additionally, we report a dosage effect, where participating in more activities resulted in greater learning gains, providing evidence in support of embedding computational thinking enhanced activities across high school curriculum.
Original language | English (US) |
---|---|
Title of host publication | 12th International Conference of the Learning Sciences, ICLS 2016 |
Subtitle of host publication | Transforming Learning, Empowering Learners, Proceedings |
Editors | Chee-Kit Looi, Joseph L. Polman, Peter Reimann, Ulrike Cress |
Publisher | International Society of the Learning Sciences (ISLS) |
Pages | 705-712 |
Number of pages | 8 |
Volume | 2 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9780990355083 |
State | Published - 2016 |
Event | 12th International Conference of the Learning Sciences: Transforming Learning, Empowering Learners, ICLS 2016 - Singapore, Singapore Duration: Jun 20 2016 → Jun 24 2016 |
Other
Other | 12th International Conference of the Learning Sciences: Transforming Learning, Empowering Learners, ICLS 2016 |
---|---|
Country/Territory | Singapore |
City | Singapore |
Period | 6/20/16 → 6/24/16 |
Keywords
- Broadening participation
- Computational thinking
- High school mathematics and science
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Computer Science (miscellaneous)
- Education