Khon Kaen – 27th July 2023, the Workshop on Unplugged Computational Thinking Using Colouring Books: Classroom Observation was held back-to-back with the Centre Director Meeting (CDM) 2023. This workshop marks a significant step in the joint project collaboration aimed to develop computational thinking teaching materials for elementary school students. The project brings together the collective efforts of SEAQiM, SEAMEO STEM-ED, SEAMEO RECSAM, SEAMEO SEAMOLEC, the University of Tsukuba, the University of Chile, and Khon Kaen University. The event took place successfully at the Institute for Research and Development in Teaching Profession for ASEAN, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand, on 27th July 2023.
The primary objective of this workshop was to foster knowledge exchange and share experiences in integrating computational thinking principles into educational settings. By utilizing colouring books as a tool, representatives from SEAMEO Centres observed and documented the implementation of computational thinking skills in the classroom.
The workshop commenced with a warm welcome address through a recorded video by Assoc Prof Dr. Maitree Inprasitha, Vice President for Education and Academic Services, and Acting Director of the Institute for Research and Development in Teaching Profession for ASEAN, Khon Kaen University, Thailand. Dr. Kritsachai Somsaman, Centre Director of SEAMEO STEM-ED, officially opened the event and deliver the workshop’s inaugural remarks.
The participants were invited to deepen their understanding of computational thinking in the context of 21st-century education. They explored practical applications of computational thinking concepts through colouring books, learned effective observation techniques to document and assess computational thinking skills in the classroom, and also had the opportunity to build a network of like-minded professionals from various SEAMEO Regional Centres, encouraging future collaborations and partnerships.
Honourable Prof. Roberto Araya from the University of Chile, and Prof. Masami Isoda from the University of Tsukuba, Japan, delivered insightful presentations during this valuable workshop. The event was attended by three (3) personnel from SEAMEO STEM-ED, two (2) interns from China, two (2) representatives from SEAQiM, two (2) representatives from SEAMEO RECSAM, two (2) representatives from SEAMEO SEAMOLEC, lecturers from Khon Kaen University, and two (2) students from the master’s program in Mathematics Education at Khon Kaen University, resulting in lively and engaging discussions.
Divided into two sessions, it involved a demonstration and observation of the “Using Colouring Books” at the 1st session, facilitated by Dr Narumon Changsri, a lecturer at Khon Kaen University, Thailand. During this session, elementary school students actively participated in an “Unplugged Computational Thinking” lesson using Colouring Books. The first session followed a lesson study scenario, where after the model teacher’s practice, feedback was provided by fellow lecturers from KKU. The session concluded with reflections shared by Prof. Roberto Araya from the University of Chile.
The second session focused on practical exercises using ArTech Robo, led by Prof. Masami Isoda from the University of Tsukuba. During this session, participants from SEAMEO took on the role of learners alongside master’s students in Mathematics Education from KKU. Throughout the workshop, the Director of SEAQiM, Dr Sumardyono, and the Deputy for Programme, Dr Sri Wulandari Danoebroto, actively participated in both the reflection and practice sessions. Furthermore, SEAQiM remains committed to enhancing the promotion and implementation of computational thinking in the region, and the expertise and insights shared during this workshop will undoubtedly enrich discussions and exchange of ideas among fellow educators.
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