Computational Thinking
Computational Thinking (CT) is a way of thinking that occurs when we formulate a problem and design strategies to choose solutions that are effective, efficient, and optimal.
Computational Thinking (CT) can also be understood as the ability to think systematically by using technology or computers as supporting tools—although the thinking process itself does not always require a computer.
How to Learn Computational Thinking?
Computational thinking can be learned and honed through practice, as well as through developing thought patterns based on experience. Computational thinking can also be learned by practicing solving computation-related problems, using everyday situations. Through engaging exercises, individuals apply appropriate techniques decomposition, abstraction, pattern recognition, data representation, algorithmic to find solutions. After practicing, individuals are expected to reflect and build their thinking knowledge, then develop increasingly sharp, fast, efficient, and optimal computational thinking patterns.
Elements of Computational Thinking
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Decomposition Breaking a complex problem into smaller, more manageable parts.
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Abstraction Focusing on important information while ignoring unnecessary details.
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Pattern Recognition Identifying similarities or patterns from previous problems.
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Algorithm Creating clear, step-by-step instructions to solve a problem.
Example
Imagine you get bitten by mosquitoes:
- If there is only one, you can simply slap it.
- If there are many, you might use an electric mosquito racket.
- But if you want to sleep peacefully, using mosquito repellent makes much more sense than staying awake all night 😄
The solution should match the problem. You would not burn down your house just to get rid of mosquitoes—yes, the mosquitoes would be gone, but so would your house 😅
Without realizing it, you are:
- comparing possible solutions,
- choosing the most reasonable one,
- and considering efficiency and impact.
That is Computational Thinking in action.
Conclusion
Computational Thinking (CT) is a fundamental thinking process.
Computational Thinking (CT) is a way of thinking toward solutions.
Computational Thinking (CT) is conceptualization, not programming.
Computational Thinking (CT) can be applied in all fields.
- In IT, CT produces programmable solutions.
- In non-IT fields, CT helps approach solutions when computation is needed.
Computational Thinking (CT) is a form of literacy and cannot be learned just by reading definitions.
Computational Thinking (CT) must be practiced continuously—reading and understanding concepts is not enough. Only through regular practice can this way of thinking become a habit.