Computational Thinking - Lets Think Like a Computer
In this introductory computational thinking course, children learn to problem solve simple tasks computationally. They delve into simple tasks such as baking a cookie, finding largest among given numbers, sorting/categorizing things – learn to figure out the sequence of steps, the inputs, conditions to check for, and the result/output.
Children have a lot of fun coming up with algorithms, debugging their recipes using unplugged and plugged activities & develop algorithmic skills intrinsically, in this interactive & engaging class.
Session Info
- 45 minutes per class
- Twice per week for 4 weeks or Once per week for 8 weeks
- 5 - 8 year olds
- 3 - 10 learners per class
Price - USD
$49.99
$6.25 per class per student
This is an ongoing course offered in 8 class sessions. Each new session builds on the previous session for continuing students
Available Times
Batch 1
Mondays & Wednesdays
4:00 PM – 4:45 PM – IST
11:30 AM – 12:15 PM BST
06:30 PM – 07:15 PM SGT
06:30 AM – 07:15 PM EST
Batch 2
Mondays & Wednesdays
9:00 PM – 9:45 PM – IST
04:30 PM – 5:15 PM BST
11:30 PM – 12:15 AM SGT
11:30 AM – 12:15 PM EST
Batch 3
Tuesdays & Thursdays
4:00 PM – 4:45 PM – IST
11:30 AM – 12:15 PM BST
06:30 PM – 07:15 PM SGT
06:30 AM – 07:15 PM EST
Batch 4
Tuesdays & Thursdays
9:00 PM – 9:45 PM – IST
04:30 PM – 5:15 PM BST
11:30 PM – 12:15 AM SGT
11:30 AM – 12:15 PM EST
Batch 5
Fridays & Saturdays
4:00 PM – 4:45 PM – IST
11:30 AM – 12:15 PM BST
06:30 PM – 07:15 PM SGT
06:30 AM – 07:15 PM EST
Batch 6
Fridays & Saturdays
9:00 PM – 9:45 PM – IST
04:30 PM – 5:15 PM BST
11:30 PM – 12:15 AM SGT
11:30 AM – 12:15 PM EST
Course Details
Develop foundational understanding of algorithms as a sequence of steps to get a task done.
Be able to write and test algorithms for simple tasks – children wear their computational thinking hats to take on any task and determine the inputs, sequence of steps, conditions to check for, and the end result.
Become familiar with flowcharts and pseudocode method of writing algorithms using templates, and develop fluency with practice.
Learn to test algorithms unplugged – by figuring out different input values, expected output, and comparing the expected output and the actual output obtained by walking the algorithms.
Cultivate growth mindset in young children, by encouraging them to take on newer and harder problems, and to continuously explore, engage, persist and practice
Foster positive interactions in class, & among children as through interactive group exercises.
In the first 2 weeks, children learn the process of writing algorithms, using pseudo code for many simple tasks, involving a short sequence of steps, and simple conditions. They practice with many simple tasks figuring out inputs, sequence of steps, conditions, & output using a variety of cognitive exercises, games, & more.
In the following weeks, they delve into flowcharts – learn about flowchart symbols, read and walk through flowcharts, and create their own flowcharts for algorithms representing the sequence of steps they came up with pictorially. They delve into tasks containing more than one conditional, and figure out how to branch out and converge. Children learn by solving a variety of exercises interactively individually, and in groups.
We deliberately design exercises and activities to foster peer interactions & deepen children’s understanding by hands-on problem solving. They enjoy debugging their own and others algorithms, evaluating the pros and cons of different algorithms (for the same problem/task), interacting with peers, and engage in computational thinking practice with enthusiasm
We constantly evaluate, and assess each child’s level of understanding and comfort, and engage them in activities that are appropriate for their age group, and skill level through differentiated learning exercises. Children participate enthusiastically in the learning activities and discussions, drawing inspiration from each other, most importantly, they develop intrinsic problem solving abilities by engaging in computational thinking practice.
Our teachers are highly qualified, well trained, and experienced subject matter experts, with exceptional ability to interact with, and engage young students online
45 minutes per week in class, and an estimated 30 minutes to 1 hour per week outside of class for home work
5-15 minutes of daily homework to reinforce learning. Homework is optional, children are encouraged to practice daily, post their work, and reach out to the instructor for questions.
Rough notebook or paper, pencils, colors etc. Parents will be notified ahead of class when additional items are needed for class activity
Reference material, and external resource information will be provided
Formative assessment based on student’s performance and participation in class activities and quizzes, will be provided towards the end of the session.
FAQ
This is an interactive, instructor led small group online class that will be conducted on a zoom meeting. We make learning fun and engaging for kids by using high quality multimedia content, innovative gamified and interactive learning activities, and exercises. All classes are highly interactive in nature to ensure children’s sustained attention & engagement. Each child is given individual attention when needed to ensure that every child grasps the concepts and participates actively in class.
Computational thinking is foundational to learners understanding of concepts & problem solving skills, and their academic success. We engage them in meaningful learning activities, and exercises that develop their problem solving and interactive skills
This class caters to students with both advanced and emerging skills, the goal is to advance each child’s abilities with practice. We assess various cognitive skills of each student and progress them accordingly with engaging, differentiated learning exercises.
The activities and exercises during the first class are largely geared towards understanding cognitive abilities & learning styles, and to build rapport among students, and between each student & instructor. It is very essential for all students to attend the first class of each session.
Yes, parents will be provided with a post lesson summary of the concepts taught, and exercises practiced in each session, through email, WhatsApp & course reference page. Further parents will be notified in advance, when students need any other learning materials/supplies for class activities.
Our research suggest that children learn, and engage better when they learn together with a diverse group of older, younger, and same age peers. Having said that, in order to best serve the learning needs of each child, we differentiate the learning activities and exercises, and adapt & evolve our teaching methods continuously based on children’s response & engagement in class.
Teacher is available for to clarify students’ doubts or questions for an extra 10 minutes, towards the end of class. Further students, or parents on behalf of students, may reach out to us on course email (which will be provided to enrolled students), for questions/clarifications
The Mindful Learning Space ardently believes in continuous learning & practice, to this extent we share relevant exercises, activities and resources for students to practice beyond class, and session.
Please refer to the overall cancellation policy on the main FAQ page. A make up class is offered in exceptional cases, when the instructor is unable to conduct a scheduled class.
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Related Resources
Check out these wonderful resources for more information:
Computational Thinking for Kindergartners
10 Interesting Flowcharts for Kids