Abstract
In this paper, we propose that paper circuitry provides a productive space for exploring aspects of computational thinking, an increasingly critical 21st century skills for all students. We argue that the creation and operation of paper circuits involve learning about computational concepts such as rule-based constraints, operations, and defined states. Moreover, paper circuitry materials are low cost, provide a low threshold to entry, and draw upon the familiarity that already exists with respect to paper as a hands-on and interactive medium. Paper circuitry thus provides multiple points of entry for students who are unfamiliar with computational thinking ideas while also supporting creative, artistic and crafting activities. It also provides an important alternative to the typically steep learning curve associated with learning a programming language. We define paper circuitry and associated technologies, show how they afford key dimensions of computational thinking, and present examples of paper circuit projects created by students.
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Funding for this work came from an Institute of Museum and Library Services grant, no. RE-31-16-0013-16 and from the Beverly Taylor Sorenson Arts Learning Program.
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Victor Lee declares that he has no conflict of interest. Mimi Recker declares that she has no conflict of interest.
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All procedures performed in studies involving human participants were in accordance with the ethical standards of the institutional and/or national research committee and with the 1964 Helsinki declaration and its later amendments or comparable ethical standards.
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Lee, V.R., Recker, M. Paper Circuits: A Tangible, Low Threshold, Low Cost Entry to Computational Thinking. TechTrends 62, 197–203 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11528-017-0248-3
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11528-017-0248-3