Computational Thinking
Decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithmic thinking as a foundation for programming and formal reasoning.
Computational thinking is not about using computers — it is about thinking like one. This course introduces the four pillars: decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithm design. You will practise each on paper problems before touching any code, building habits of thought that transfer across every programming language and domain.
Outcomes
- Decompose a complex problem into independent, solvable sub-problems
- Recognise patterns that recur across seemingly unrelated problems
- Abstract away irrelevant detail to focus on what a solution must do
- Express a solution as a precise step-by-step algorithm before writing code
Outline
Start →- 01Introduction to Computational ThinkingWhat computational thinking is, why it matters, and how the four pillars connect.
- 02DecompositionBreaking complex problems into manageable sub-problems and knowing when decomposition helps.
- 03Pattern RecognitionIdentifying similarities across problems to generalise solutions and avoid redundant work.
- 04Abstraction and AlgorithmsHiding irrelevant detail and expressing solutions as precise step-by-step procedures.