Algorithmic thinking: central concepts, elements and pedagogical considerations

Abstract

This thesis researches the essence of algorithmic thinking. What does the term mean? What are its central concepts and elements, and what is its importance for developing programs? How to teach algorithmic thinking in the introductory parts of computer science, such as programming? "Computational thinking" is related to algorithmic thinking, but the two are not the same. Computational thinking has been promoted as a mode of reasoning about problems and methods of their solution aimed at computing as the activity of computers; algorithmic thinking involves a thought process in and towards algorithms. Algorithmic thinking is associated with that kind of thought that the machine would have if it could think. That kind of thought is necessary to reduce a phenomenon from the real world to the computational world. A semiotic transformation that is characterized by the rigor of precision, clarity, unambiguity, and by being operational. Insofar, algorithmic thinking is more abstract; it does not necessarily strive to compute; it instead is about developing computable functions. Algorithmic thinking is the leading mental activity required in preparation for developing programs. However, it must not be restricted to the field of programming. One particular effort of the thesis is pedagogical considerations about teaching algorithmic thinking in the introductory computer science courses focused on programming. The current emphasis on a more explicit understanding of algorithmic thinking represents a renewed vision to prepare young students in fields influenced by computing.