CT Cafe

Our friend and colleague, Bernard Gibson, recently shared this list of background research with the Task Committee. Bernard is leading a project to develop and pilot Computational Thinking infusion strategies for post-secondary audiences.

• Mathematics and Science Integration:  Models and Characterizations – Lessons learned from similar endeavors. This research demonstrates that integration of “math and science” will be difficult at best...
• Preservice Mathematics and Science Teachers in an Integrated Teacher Preparation Program for Grades 7-12:  A 3-Year Study of Attitudes and Perceptions Related to Integration – this study highlights the integration of math, science and technology and people’s perceptions of them. Of note that was no change in the “teachers’ perception of integration – they consider it very valuable. NOTE:  People still fear the “M&S” words (Math & Science).
• An Infusion Strategy for Career Education. Career Education Monograph Series: Volume 1, Number 2 – This body of work looks at the potential keys to getting teachers involved – make sure they are offered the opportunity to develop the work themselves (not handed to them) – looks at the RICE approach. NOTE: We are looking at infusion strategy in our work – we need to consider how to motivate and keep instructors involved.
• Doctoral Student Attrition in the STEM Fields:  An Exploratory Event History Analysis – We are losing some of the very people we need to  support/teach  our STEM related work – a 20 year study of over 10K individuals shows us why? NOTE: This is more of a justification for why this work has to be interdisciplinary in nature.
• Pedagogical Utilization and Assessment of the Statistic Online Computational Resource in Introductory Probability and Statistics Courses – New generations are more excited and more comfortable with new technology. NOTE: Statistics Online Computational Resource (SOCR) provides interactive tools that can be helpful in enhancing instruction.
• Technology Infusion Strategy. Beginning with a Pilot Project is the key. This project speaks for itself: NOTE – this is very simple and yet warrants consideration by the team.

Bernard recommends these online resources for surveying research, curricula and related academic material:

• Education Resources Information Center (ERIC) – great resource for finding more information that pertains to CT and our topical discussion
• Accessmylibrary.com