A Path to Computational Thinking and Computer Programming through Physics Problems

We propose a novel approach to improve computational thinking (CT) and computer programming (CP) via a disciplinary-based problem solving approach. We hypothesize that the syntax needed for writing a computer code can be introduced through support programs in problem solving. This article demonstrates this approach through the problem of non-linear pendulum, a familiar problem solved in most engineering and physics classes. It is basically focused on implementing numerical techniques for solving ordinary differential equations (ODEs). Instead of using a syntax-based teaching approach, support programs can be used to identify the required coding elements. We envision that this approach can be transferable to many problems in STEM classes to motivate students towards computer programming.

Creator

• Mason, R.
• Sirikumara, Hansika

Publisher

• American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE)

Language

• English

Identifier

• Paper ID #37483

Mot-clé

• disciplinary-based problem solving
• computational thinking (CT)
• ordinary differential equations (ODEs)
• computer programming (CP)

Date created

• 2022

Related URL

• Available from the publisher:  https://strategy.asee.org/41304

Resource type

• Conference Proceeding

Source

• 2022 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Rights statement

• http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/