Coding + Math - (Computational Thinking and Coding in the Curriculum) by Nicol R Howard & Keith E Howard (Paperback)

About the Book

This book provides a deep dive into computer science integration for elementary teachers, providing guidelines for designing integrated CS/math curricula through case studies and practical examples.

Book Synopsis

This book offers a deep dive into computer science integration, providing guidelines for designing elementary CS/math curricula through case studies and practical examples.

How-to books related to computer science (CS) and teaching CS in K-12 environments are often either step-by-step guides or reference books, with little or no connection to pedagogy. By contrast, Coding + Math offers the analytical foundation teachers need to inform their practice, specifically in mathematics.

Grounded in research, the book's mini-lessons contrast visual-based coding with text-based programming and provide guidance in the selection and creation of lessons, instructional materials and CS platforms to help educators prepare students for the careers of the future.

The book:

• Includes case studies in each chapter, with a research snapshot that contextualizes the key elements of the case study.
• Offers strategies for "getting out the blocks" and introducing text-based CS when students are ready.
• Examines the rationale and effectiveness of scaffolded approaches to CS -- such as block coding, scripted and storyboarding -- vs. traditional syntax-based and problem-solving approaches.
• Ties effective teaching strategies directly to the CSTA K-12 Computer Science Standards, ISTE's Standards for Computer Science Educators and the ISTE Computational Thinking Competencies.

Coding + Math will strengthen the ties between math and CS to support students' achievement in math, as well as their future CS course selections and pursuits of CS careers.

Audience: K-5 educators

About the Author

Nicol R. Howard, Ph.D., is an assistant professor in the School of Education at the University of Redlands. She has served as co-chair of ISTE's Digital Equity Network. Her research foci are equitable uses of technology in K-16 classrooms, STEM education opportunities and achievement, and teacher education concerns. She's a co-author of the ISTE books Closing the Gap: Digital Equity Strategies for the K-12 Classroom and Closing the Gap: Digital Equity Strategies for Teacher Prep Programs.