Developing Computational Thinking through the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Secondary Education

Summary

Computational thinking is a problem-solving process that encompasses a range of characteristics, including logical reasoning, abstraction, and decomposition. It is a method that can be applied to any problem, not just those related to computers. Artificial intelligence (AI) represents the application of computational thinking to the creation of intelligent machines. The way AI systems are structured mirrors elements of computational thinking. For this reason, AI could serve as a significant tool in teaching, aimed at fostering computational thinking skills. In recent years, there has been much discussion about AI and its potential impact on various sectors.

However, one area that has received less attention is the potential impact of AI on secondary education. The integration of AI into education falls under the broader incorporation of ICT in education. There are several ways in which AI could potentially transform secondary education. For instance, AI-based teaching systems could be utilized to provide personalized instruction to students. AI could also be employed to create more tailored learning experiences, adapted to the strengths and weaknesses of each student. Moreover, the use of AI in education can help students learn at their own pace and tailor their learning paths to meet individual needs.

Secondary education is the process of preparing young people for the transition from childhood to adulthood. Often, secondary education encompasses both academic and vocational training. However, the application of teaching methods aimed at developing computational thinking in secondary education remains in its early stages. There are numerous challenges to address, such as the lack of teacher training and resources dedicated to computational thinking. With the proper support, computational thinking can become a valuable tool in secondary education. By teaching students how to reason logically, abstract, and decompose, they will be better equipped to tackle real-world problems.