Computational Thinking with Blockly Games: A step-by-step guide for young learners

Many parents want to teach their children about coding but often do not know where to begin or what to cover. The idea for this book evolved to precisely address this need. It is meant for kids and anyone who wants to learn the basics of computer programming and Computational Thinking. Welcome to the world of Computational Thinking for young learners.

The book covers foundational problem-solving concepts through simple games, taking young students on a journey of thinking, planning, and solving problems. This book aims to aid this process, promoting creativity and innovation.

The importance of teaching coding from the early school years is recognized by many countries. It is now mandatory under the new education policy of Govt. of India.

Blockly Games have been adopted in this book as an enjoyable way to introduce computational thinking and programming concepts. The book follows a graded pedagogy with guided discovery (Chapters 1 to 14), semi-guided lessons (Chapters 15 to 16), and open-ended exploration (Chapters 17 to 20).

Printed versions: Full colour (ISBN: 9798890260475) and b/w version (ISBN: 9798890261038). Available from Amazon, Flipkart and Notion Press - https://notionpress.com/read/computational-thinking-with-blockly-games.

Ebook: https://books.google.co.in/books?id=AMO5EAAAQBAJ&newbks=0&hl=en&source=newbks_fb&redir_esc=y

Some reviews:

'Computational Thinking with Blocky Games' by Ashok Banerji PhD is a timely work to build the digital skills of children and prepare them for a future that is volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous. Using the open-source software developed by Google, Dr Banerji provides a 20-day package for teachers to introduce systematic and logical thinking using blocks and a gaming environment most suitable to children. This book will go a long way in popularising computational thinking in schools.

Sanjaya Mishra PhD, Director, Commonwealth of Learning, British Columbia, Canada

“All books are not for children but for every child, there is a book, and this book is a wonderful gift that has been designed especially for young students to master the art of Computational Thinking. In fact, the book is for every age to learn essential 21st-century skills.”

Bratati Bhattacharyya, Secretary General and CEO, Shikshayatan Foundation

“Written as a step-by-step guide in simple language, this book will help children to learn coding through gameplay.”

Dr A.M. Ghosh, Rtd. Prof. and HOD Computer Science, BESU, Shibpur

“Loved the book. It helped me to learn the basics of coding,”

Daiwik Bhattacharjee, Std. 6 Bombay Scottish School

"I recently had the opportunity to read your book and I must say, it's an outstanding resource for parents and young learners alike.

Your book beautifully addresses a common challenge faced by parents who want to introduce coding to their children but often need help knowing where to begin or what concepts to cover. Your focus on Computational Thinking as a foundational element is both innovative and essential, as it forms the bedrock of crucial problem-solving skills in today's digital age.

I was particularly impressed with how you designed the book, taking young students on a journey of thinking, planning, and problem-solving through simple games. This approach makes learning enjoyable for children and ensures they build a solid understanding of the subject matter. Your emphasis on promoting creativity and innovation complements the learning process, encouraging students to think outside the box and develop unique solutions.

The decision to incorporate Blockly Games in the book was brilliant. It provides an interactive and engaging way to introduce computational thinking and programming concepts, making it easier for young learners to grasp the material. The graded pedagogy with guided discovery is a thoughtful addition, allowing students to progress at their own pace while offering proper guidance throughout their learning journey.

It is a comprehensive and well-crafted guide that will undoubtedly benefit many young learners and their parents. It will equip them with the necessary skills and mindset to excel in an increasingly technology-driven world. Your dedication to empowering young minds through education is evident throughout the book, and I have no doubt that it will positively impact the lives of those who read it.

Thank you for creating such a valuable resource. Your book will undoubtedly inspire many to explore the fascinating world of coding and Computational Thinking."

Rahid Alekberli MIEEE, MACM, Technology Business Leader, Advisor ADA University, Azerbaijan