Valerie Critten
Papers
1
Total Citations
80
H-Index
1
About
Valerie Critten is a pioneering researcher in early childhood education, with a focus on computational thinking and inclusive learning. Her work explores how very young children—including those as young as two years old and those with communication difficulties—can develop foundational programming and coding skills through guided play. Her most cited study, "Can Pre-school Children Learn Programming and Coding Through Guided Play Activities? A Case Study in Computational Thinking" (2021, 80 citations), demonstrates that structured, playful activities in coding clubs can effectively introduce computational concepts to preschoolers. This research stands out for its inclusive approach, actively involving children with special educational needs and showing that early computational thinking is accessible to diverse learners. Critten’s contributions challenge traditional assumptions about the age at which children can engage with digital literacy, offering practical, evidence-based strategies for educators. Her work has significant implications for curriculum design in early years settings, bridging the gap between play-based pedagogy and STEM education. By highlighting the potential of guided play, Critten has helped shape a more inclusive and developmentally appropriate pathway into computational thinking for our youngest learners.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1