Computational Thinking & Social and Emotional Learning

Fostering primary school students’ computational thinking skills can be a great way to assist them in producing solutions more creatively. Computational thinking can develop problem-solving skills by breaking down complex problems into smaller, manageable parts and improve algorithmic thinking by helping them create a sequence of precise instructions to solve a problem. Students learn to develop algorithms, refine them, and understand their role in problem-solving. Computational thinking promotes creativity and innovation by encouraging students to think outside the box and develop novel solutions. It inspires them to explore different possibilities and experiment with new ideas. This skill enhances students’ logical reasoning abilities. They learn to identify patterns, make connections, and draw logical conclusions. This logical reasoning extends beyond computer science and can be applied to various subjects and real-life situations, requiring social and emotional learning skills.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is an educational approach that focuses on developing students’ social and emotional skills to promote their well-being, positive relationships, and academic success. Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) encompasses five key competencies that promote the holistic development of students.

SEL COMPETENCIES

Self-Awareness

The first competency is self-awareness, which involves understanding and recognizing one's emotions, strengths, and limitations. It includes cultivating self-confidence and having a realistic assessment of one's abilities.

Self-Management

The second competency is self-management, which focuses on regulating emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in various situations. It involves goal setting, demonstrating self-discipline, and effectively managing stress and impulses.

Social Awareness

The third competency is social awareness, which entails empathizing with others' emotions and perspectives. It involves understanding social norms, showing empathy, and appreciating diversity.

Relationship Skills

The fourth competency is relationship skills, which emphasize building and maintaining positive and healthy relationships. It includes effective communication, active listening, cooperation, and conflict resolution.

Responsible Decision-Making

Lastly, responsible decision-making is a competency that involves making ethical and constructive choices based on consideration for oneself and others. It encompasses problem-solving, evaluating consequences, and using ethical reasoning.

These five competencies work together to support student’s social and emotional growth, enhancing their overall well-being and academic success.

COMPUSEL is an Erasmus+ KA220 School Project with 6 partners with the leadership of Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University that aims to integrate computational thinking and social and emotional learning skills in primary school students. By combining these two important skills, COMPUSEL will empower students to not only excel in problem-solving but also develop crucial social and emotional competencies. COMPUSEL aims to inspire creativity and innovation in students by encouraging them to think outside the box and develop novel solutions. We want to create an environment where students can explore different possibilities and experiment with new ideas, not only in the realm of computational thinking but also in developing their social and emotional intelligence.

For more information, please visit the project website.

http://www.compuseleu.com