Abstract
A problem-solving method known as computational thinking (CT) has been described as a 21st-century skill that all students should learn in preparation for increasingly automated jobs in the future. However, little instructional design approach is available to guide educators and designers when designing mobile learning applications to support CT skills learning and implementation. This study addresses the above issue by revisiting Merrill's first principle of instructional model (FPI) with the CT technique and describing how the proposed CT-FPI instructional design can be used in designing mobile learning applications for problem-solving learning. The decomposition technique, a component of computational thinking, involves breaking down complex problems into smaller, manageable parts. Future studies for this research will contribute valuable insights to the field of instructional design in developing learning aids for mobile applications that promote the CT-decomposition technique for problem analysis in learners.
TopBackground
One of the 21st-century skills that today’s learners should have is having advanced problem-solving skills (PSS). Learners who have developed PSS are able to choose the most appropriate one by presenting possible solutions to the existing problems. However, students who have not got developed PSS may face problems such as not knowing what to do at the point of producing and applying solution strategies against a problem and they may need external support (Karaoglan Yilmaz, 2022). According to a study by Tóthová & Rusek (2022), there is a need to support students' problem-solving techniques in a number of ways, including through thorough reading and by helping them identify the core issue and any supporting details. Advancements in educational technologies have created new opportunities for instructors to design learning activities, which involve students taking more responsibility for their learning.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Problem-Solving: A process that involves problem analysis, solution design, implementation, testing, and documentation.
Decomposition: A process of breaking a complex problem into small and manageable pieces.
Problem Analysis: A process of analyzing a problem to determine its input, process, and output in order to solve it.
Instructional Design: The creation of instructional materials by considering how students learn and the most effective materials and methods to achieve learning objectives.
Mobile Learning: A way of accessing or delivering learning content through mobile devices.
Mobile Learning Application: A program or software used on smartphones for academic purposes that allows learning anytime and anywhere.
Computational Thinking: A systematic thinking process involved in problem-solving activities.