Puzzling Our Way into Computational Thinking

Abstract

This unplugged activity is a brief, practical introduction to computational thinking that uses an accessible and decidedly low-tech approach: solving a jigsaw puzzle. The skills needed to collaboratively solve a jigsaw puzzle illustrate the key concepts of computational thinking in a straightforward way that makes the basics of decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithmic thinking come to life. The learning representation included here was taught as part of a professional development workshop for PK-12 teachers but could easily be adapted to use with learners from upper elementary grades through middle school, high school, or university.