Abstract:

This study presents an unplugged approach to promoting computational thinking in primary education. Computational thinking, a structured, computer-like approach to problem solving, can be developed from an early age even without digital tools. We emphasise key computational thinking practices such as algorithmic thinking, pattern recognition, decomposition, abstraction and debugging that can be taught using age-appropriate methods. This work is part of the project Innovative Pedagogics 5.0 – The Comprehensive Transformation of Green and Digital Education.

The study highlights a "treasure hunt" activity adapted from the Beaver Computing Challenge for 6-, 7- and 8-year-olds, focusing on pattern recognition and algorithmic design tasks. In this team-based activity, 2nd and 3rd grade students solve problems, identify clues and follow sequential paths that require logic, attention and collaboration. The teachers' feedback indicated that the students were highly motivated and engaged while solving tasks and navigating between locations. They observed that even initial missteps such as missing instructions or incorrect answers prompted students to return, re-evaluate the task and learn from their mistakes. Based on these results, we suggest including more unplugged activities to promote computational thinking in primary education.

Keywords:

Computational thinking, primary education, pattern recognition, algorithmic thinking, collaborative learning.