From Computing to Computational Thinking

Introduction

Digital computers brought us the information revolution. Citizens in the information age must deal with computers, smartphones, and the Internet. In addition, they also need to gain computational thinking.

Computational thinking (CT) is the mental skill to apply fundamental concepts and reasoning, derived from modern digital computers and computer science, in all areas, including day-to-day activities. CT is thinking inspired by an understanding of computers and information technologies, and the advantages, limitations, and problems they bring. CT also encourages us to keep asking questions such as “ What if we automate this?” “ What instructions and precautions would we need if we were asking young children to do this?” “How ...