Learn how integrating Computational Thinking and STEM result in authentic project based learning for your students. Utilize edtech tools to insure high learner engagement. Tools include- web and app-based coding apps and games; robotics for all ages including the Finch, Dash & Dot, and Cubetto; and digital & physical play integration tools including the OSMO, Cardboard VR/AR, and 3D printers. Don't miss this fast-paced discussion of STEM in action!

1. L E A R N H O W I N T E G R A T I N G C O M P U T A T I O N A L
T H I N K I N G A N D S T E M R E S U L T I N
A U T H E N T I C P R O J E C T B A S E D L E A R N I N G F O R
Y O U R S T U D E N T S .
S U S A N S . W E L L S
P R E S I D E N T - E L E C T 2 0 1 5 - 1 6 F O R I S T E M O B I L E L E A R N I N G
N E T W O R K
H T T P : / / W W W . S U S A N S W E L L S . C O M
H T T P : / / W W W . C A M P T E C H T E R R A . C O M
H T T P S : / / W W W . L I N K E D I N . C O M / I N / S U S A N S W E L L S
W E L L S S U S A N S @ G M A I L . C O M
@ W E L L S S U S A N
Computational Thinking &
STEM = PBL in Action

2. What is computational thinking?
 Computational thinking is a way of solving problems,
designing systems, and understanding human
behavior.

3. What is STEM?
 STEM refers to the academic disciplines of Science,
Technology, Engineering, and Math. They are
focused together because of their deep connections
to the real world. Students learn most effectively
with this kind of interdisciplinary and applied
focus.

4. What is PBL?
 Project-Based Learning is a dynamic approach to
teaching in which students explore real-world
problems and challenges. With this type of active
and engaged learning, students are inspired to
obtain a deeper knowledge of the subjects they
are studying.

5. Quick results of using CT –
Focusing on insights

6. Analyzing situations

7. Drawing conclusions

8. Long term result of using CT –
Problems solved creatively

9. Innovative digital tech tools for PBL
*Robotics
Cubetto Robot
Dash & Dot Robots
The Finch Robot

10. *Digitally and physically integrated toys
3D Makerbot Printer
Osmo
Cardboard

11. Goal of CT + STEM = Authentic PBL
 Integration of computational
thinking and STEM skills across
content areas to solve global
problems

12. Example… Computational Thinking Concept and
STEM Application = PBL
Example: Lack of Water Around the World
 Computational Thinking Concept-
 Break a problem into parts or steps
 STEM Application-
 Break down global drought crisis areas and determine how drought conditions are
impacting the communities
 Computer Science Application-
 Recognize and find patterns or trends
 STEM Application-
 Visualize data comparing water need conditions in parts of the world
 Computer Science Application-
 Develop instructions to solve a problem or steps for a task with data
 STEM Application-
 Determine target global water crisis areas based on data, make a plan to help alleviate
water crisis

13. Resources

14. Operational Definition Computational Thinking
http://csta.acm.org/Curricul
um/sub/CurrFiles/CompThi
nkingFlyer.pdf
https://www.iste.org/explore
/articledetail?articleid=152

15. Computational Thinking for Educators
https://computationalthinkingcourse.withgoogle.com/preview

16. Susan S. Wells
 Outreach Coordinator for K-12 Education, Shodor, National Resource
for Computational Science Education
 President-Elect 2015-16 for ISTE Mobile Learning Network
 Founder, Camp TechTerra TM and TechTerra TrainingTM, bringing together
technology and nature in STEM-based discovery
 Consultant on educational technology for K-12
website
http://www.susanswells.com
http://www.camptechterra.com
twitter
@wellssusan
Contact me
wellssusans@gmail.com
919-627-4207
Thank you!