This workshop is geared towards middle school or high school pre-service teachers interested in collaborating with educators internationally to gain a deeper understanding of computational thinking and inquiry-based teaching methods in science education. The workshop introduced attendees to computational thinking and how to use this method to spark inquiry in students.
Participants used hands-on activities to explore the impacts of blended learning environments on teaching and learning and walked away equipped with the tools necessary to implement this approach in their own science classrooms. The workshop looked at specific computational models and explore how to use this dynamic, inquiry-based approach to science education. For example, participants explored a model of a forest fire by altering initial parameters and analyzing the changes those parameters create. Then, participants gathered data and used Shodor's dynamic graphing and data analysis tools to explore the broader implications of their investigations.
Noyce Scholars who participated in the workshop can be found here.