Studying with a computer
IN PHOTO: Secondary school students use computers to enhance learning Reuters

A few days ago, Google founding investor, Dr David Cheriton donated $7.5 million to the University of British Columbia to establish a degree course in computational thinking and to add a new division in computer science studies. Classes for this new course, computational thinking, will commence in September 2016.

In Sweden, the Department of Computer and Information Science received SEK 1 million from Vinnova, a government agency that administers budgetary allocation for research and development. Funds would be used to empower computer studies in all levels. Lessons on basic programming, computer and Internet systems will be introduced to elementary and secondary schools will receive minimal computer education. Some universities will be able to modify current computer courses.

During the mid-2000s,yhe Carnegie Mellon University held summer workshops for teachers on computational thinking courses. Google and Microsoft co-sponsored the activities. Since then, the campaign to elevate computer studies to a higher level spread to other schools in the United States, and to other countries in Europe, Asia, Middle East and Africa. Non-profit organisations and coalitions like Computing in the Core were established. The network of funding institutions that support computer education has widened and will continue to prosper.

What is Computational Thinking?

According to Jeannette M. Wing, corporate vice president of Microsoft Research, computational thinking is "thinking like a computer scientist." It is about using mental skills in formulating problems and in solving them as well, even without a machine. Eight years ago, she envisioned this branch of computer science study be incorporated in all instructional media. With this, more people would appreciate computation and data analysis even if they are not computer geniuses.

The early 2000s had a downtrend in computer education and interest. However, determined scientists who shared Wing's vision succeeded in developing practical systems that have boosted today's appreciation of informatics education.

Today, computer science studies are no longer confined to universities. Big corporations, government offices and other industries have integrated this learning and system as well. Years from now, analytical thinking will be used more often to improve daily living.