How Teachers Are Making Computer Science Click

By Catherine Atkinson    

Ed Surge

Jun 16, 2025

How Teachers Are Making Computer Science Click

Catherine Atkinson, (June 16, 2025) https://www.iste.org/resources/iste-plus-community/how‑teachers‑mak...

In “How Teachers Are Making Computer Science Click,” Catherine Atkinson showcases how Utah teachers—from first grade through high school—are transforming computer science (CS) into a tool for critical thinking, problem-solving, and cross-curricular learning, rather than limiting it to coding classes.

1. From Hesitation to Enthusiasm

First-grade teacher Alexis Johnson exemplifies the change—initially intimidated by CS, she eagerly embraced professional learning in computational thinking. What began as curiosity became full classroom integration, illustrating how accessible and empowering CS can be for educators without a tech background.

2. Statewide Professional Learning Initiative

Utah’s Computer Science Education Master Plan (2019), spurred by a booming local tech sector, aims to ensure statewide access to CS education. The Silicon Slopes CS Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Utah, partnered with ISTE+ASCD to launch Transform CS in spring 2024. The initiative offered flexible PD options—including ISTE Certification, AI Explorations, and computational thinking microcredentials—enabling teachers to grow at their own pace and immediately apply new strategies in their classrooms.

3. Deepening Teachers’ Computational Thinking

Teachers reported significant growth in computational thinking frameworks, rooted in four core processes: decomposition, pattern recognition, algorithm design, and abstraction. The Transform CS course began with foundational questions—"What is computational thinking? Why does it matter?"—helping educators identify opportunities to weave CS into everyday instruction.

4. Making CS Relevant Across Subjects

UBS first-grade students applied computational thinking to phonics: they categorized vowel patterns and identified spelling rules. Similarly, students in Jordan School District learned about algorithms through everyday routines, such as lining up or tying shoes.

In middle and high school, instructors like Stacey King and Traci Rindlisbach extended computational thinking into math and global studies. Using platforms like Dollar Street, students analyzed worldwide data, recognized trends, and drew conclusions—developing both CS skills and global awareness.

5. Hands-On, Playful Learning

First-grade classrooms frequently featured hands-on coding experiences. In one activity, students acted as robots, obeying “code” to stack cups or navigate mazes. Teachers noted that pupils naturally used terms like “loops” and “variables”, indicating a more intuitive grasp of CS concepts through play.

Teachers emphasized that adopting computational thinking isn't limited to CS classes: it can—and should—be integrated into literacy, math, social studies, and other core subjects. This shift reframes CS as a thinking tool, not a separate discipline.

6. Sustained Growth and Teacher Mindset

The article underlines that mindset matters: teachers moved from uncertainty—“I don’t know CS”—to excitement and confidence—“Let’s do it!” Educators emphasized the importance of ongoing iteration: “iterate, iterate, iterate,” using classroom experiments to refine approaches.

Teachers remain committed to growth, especially as AI and educational technology evolve. They recognize that computing in the classroom isn’t static—it must grow alongside tech developments.

🌱 Implications for Educators

• Integrate CS thinking across disciplines: Algorithms, patterns, and problem decomposition aren't just for coding—they enrich literacy, math, and global learning.

• Invest in structured, flexible PD: Programs like Transform CS help educators build confidence and competence over time.

• Embrace play-based, hands-on experiences: Engaging students with unplugged coding activities (robots, cup stacking) fosters natural understanding of core CS concepts.

• Cultivate a growth mindset: Teachers and students alike learn by experimenting, reflecting, and iterating—ongoing practice trumps one-off lessons.

• Look forward: As AI reshapes education, equipping students with foundational CS thinking becomes increasingly essential.

By reframing computer science as a universal tool for critical thinking and problem-solving, educators can create more meaningful, engaging learning experiences—empowering all students to thrive in a tech-driven world.

Original Article

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Prepared with the assistance of AI software

OpenAI. (2025). ChatGPT (4) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com