Teaching Computational Thinking for Kids

Professor Tim Bell has distinguished himself as a transformative figure in computer science education at the University of Canterbury, where his groundbreaking "Computer Science Unplugged" project has revolutionized how computer science concepts are taught worldwide, making complex topics accessible through activities, games, and magic tricks without using computers. As a faculty member in the Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering, he teaches courses on computational thinking, computer science fundamentals, and digital technologies, while his teaching portfolio encompasses both university and K-12 education. His expertise extends to text compression algorithms and computer music, reflecting his unique ability to blend technical expertise with creative teaching approaches. Bell's educational impact has earned him numerous prestigious accolades, including the ETH Zurich ABZ medal for CS Unplugged, the ACM SIGCSE Outstanding Contribution to Computer Science Education award, and his appointment as a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2024. His teaching materials, translated into over 20 languages, demonstrate the global reach of his educational methods, while his active involvement since 2008 in designing and deploying digital technologies curriculum in New Zealand schools has shaped national education policy. Adding a personal touch to his academic profile, he is also an accomplished musician who plays instruments with black and white keys, embodying his philosophy of making learning both engaging and accessible.

Tracy Henderson serves as a Project Manager and Content Writer in the Computer Science Education Research Group at the University of Canterbury, where she focuses on developing innovative approaches to teaching computer science and computational thinking to primary school students. With over 20 years of teaching experience, she plays a vital role in several significant initiatives, including the DTHM for kaiako project, which creates resources for teaching Digital Technology and Hangarau Matihiko in New Zealand schools. As the secretary of Digital Technologies Teachers Aotearoa (DTTA), she actively contributes to shaping digital technology education across New Zealand. Her passion lies in creating inclusive learning opportunities that help students see themselves in Digital Technologies, with a particular interest in exploring creative teaching methods such as using conductive paint and LEDs. Her work encompasses developing educational resources, managing projects, and supporting teachers in implementing computational thinking in their classrooms. Henderson's expertise extends to various digital technology education projects, including CS Unplugged and the National Digital Readiness programme, where she focuses on making complex computer science concepts accessible to young learners through engaging and innovative teaching methods

Joanne Roberts has established herself as a transformative educator at the University of Canterbury Computer Science Education Research Group, where she combines her passion for programming with culturally responsive teaching methods. As a Content Writer and educator, she dedicates 2-3 days per week teaching programming in te reo Māori at Māori immersion schools, making computer science education more accessible and culturally relevant. Her work includes developing educational resources and teaching materials for the CS Unplugged project, which helps introduce computational thinking concepts to young learners. After discovering coding and computer science by chance, she has made it her mission to demystify programming for young people, showing them that computer science is an accessible and viable career path. Her approach focuses on making programming fun and engaging while breaking down stereotypes about who can succeed in the field. Through her work with the Teaching Computational Thinking course at the University of Canterbury, she helps demonstrate how to teach computational concepts using simple, readily available tools in classrooms and homes.