ERIC Number: EJ1168338
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2018
Pages: 29
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1098-6065
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Available Date: N/A
Computational Literacy and "The Big Picture" Concerning Computers in Mathematics Education
diSessa, Andrea A.
Mathematical Thinking and Learning: An International Journal, v20 n1 p3-31 2018
This article develops some ideas concerning the "big picture" of how using computers might fundamentally change learning, with an emphasis on mathematics (and, more generally, STEM education). I develop the big-picture model of "computation as a new literacy" in some detail and with concrete examples of sixth grade students learning the mathematics of motion. The principles that define computational literacy also serve as an analytical framework to examine competitive big pictures, and I use them to consider the plausibility, power, and limitations of other important contemporary trends in computationally centered education, notably "computational thinking" and "coding" as a social movement. While both of these trends have much to recommend them, my analysis uncovers some implausible assumptions and counterproductive elements of those trends. I close my essay with some more practical and action-oriented advice to mathematics educators on how best to orient to the long-term trajectory (big picture) of improving mathematics education with computation.
Descriptors: Computers, Computation, Computer Literacy, Mathematics Instruction, Mathematics Teachers, STEM Education, Grade 6, Thinking Skills
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Grade 6
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: National Science Foundation (NSF)
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A