How to Cultivate Computational Thinking-Enabled Engineers: A Case Study on the Robotics Class of Zhejiang University

Abstract

Computational Thinking (CT) is typically construed as an essential competence in solving problems and designing complex systems in the digital world.Robotics programs provide learning environments for acquiring core computational thinking skills.This study first proposes a framework of computational thinking in the context of engineering (CT-ENG), using qualitative content analysis on industry interviews.The authors then introduce the program of the Robotics Class of Zhejiang University in China, providing an integrative approach to teaching computational thinking effectively.The Robotics Class engages students in project-based computing-aided engineering activities throughout the four-year bachelor's program, and improves their computational thinking skills through engineering engagement.The findings in this study could have some implications for non-CS engineering majors to promote computing education and equip students with computational thinking at digital era.