Computational Thinking – Forces Shaping Curriculum and Policy in Finland, Sweden and the Baltic Countries

Pia Niemelä, Arnold Pears, Valentina Dagienė, Mart Laanpere

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionScientificpeer-review

6 Citations (Scopus)
123 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Through an increased focus on computing and computational concepts in the school curriculum the Nordic and Baltic countries are preparing to equip themselves to explore the opportunities that Industry 4.0 and beyond can offer. Realising this vision has inevitable consequences for the curriculum in compulsory schooling (preschool to year 9) as new scaffolding for the development of new competencies is needed, and adapting to technological change involves also integrating Computational Thinking topics and skills, as well as elements of programming and digital literacy into existing curricula. The Nordic countries (Finland and Sweden) have chosen not to create a new school subject, advocating the integration of these skills and competencies into existing subjects such as Arts and Crafts, Language, Mathematics and Technology. In contrast, the Baltic countries emphasise introduction of a subject called Informatics in which programming and Computational Thinking skills and competencies are intended to be developed. This paper provides an analysis of approaches taken to scaffolding access to Computational Thinking in the Nordic and Baltic countries.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationDigital Transformation of Education and Learning - Past, Present and Future - IFIP TC 3 Open Conference on Computers in Education, OCCE 2021, Proceedings
EditorsDon Passey, Denise Leahy, Lawrence Williams, Jaana Holvikivi, Mikko Ruohonen
PublisherSpringer
Pages131-143
Number of pages13
ISBN (Print)9783030979850
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2022
Publication typeA4 Article in conference proceedings
EventOpen Conference on Computers in Education - Tampere
Duration: 17 Aug 202120 Aug 2021

Publication series

NameIFIP Advances in Information and Communication Technology
Volume642 IFIP
ISSN (Print)1868-4238
ISSN (Electronic)1868-422X

Conference

ConferenceOpen Conference on Computers in Education
CityTampere
Period17/08/2120/08/21

Keywords

  • Computational thinking
  • Digital skills
  • Technological fluency

Publication forum classification

  • Publication forum level 1

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Information Systems
  • Computer Networks and Communications
  • Information Systems and Management

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