Computational Thinking
Learn different strategies for problem solving.
Last updated
Learn different strategies for problem solving.
Last updated
Computational thinking is used to describe a set of skills needed in computing, programming and digital making. Essentially, it describes ability to think logically about a problem and apply techniques for solving it.
Computational thinking involves solving problems, designing systems, and understanding human behaviour, by drawing on the concepts fundamental to computer science. ~ Jeannette M Wing
There are many ways of solving a problem, here are some of them:
Simulation is the process of creating a model of the real-life situation in order to understand the behaviour of the system and to evaluate strategies for it's operation.
Simulation applications include: Population prediction apps, Managing inventory systems and Queueing problems.
Queueing problems encompass a diverse range of scenarios, each requiring a tailored approach to determine the optimal number of resources. For instance:
Call Centre Help Lines: Analyse historical call volume data to determine peak times and average handling times. Utilize queueing theory models to calculate the optimal number of help lines needed to minimize caller wait times while maintaining efficiency.
Checkouts at a New Supermarket: Consider factors such as expected customer flow, average transaction times, and desired service level. Conduct simulations or queueing models to find the ideal number of checkouts that balance customer satisfaction with operational costs.
Pay points on a Toll Road: Evaluate traffic patterns, peak hours, and toll collection times. Use queueing theory or traffic flow models to optimize the number of paypoints to reduce congestion and waiting times for drivers.
A queueing system is described by:
Arrival rate
Time between arrivals
Number of servers
Service time
Arrival rate must be less than service rate for a stable system.
Enumeration is a process of systematically listing out all possibilities in order to find a valid solution.
In mathematics, enumeration involves counting the number of possible outcomes in a given scenario. For example, when calculating permutations or combinations, enumeration helps determine the total number of arrangements or selections without missing any possibilities.
For example, You may find many solvers online which give you the ability to solve and give every possible anagram of the input within seconds.
Trial and error involves testing different approaches until a solution is found. It begins with generating hypotheses, testing them, evaluating outcomes, refining the approach, and iterating until a satisfactory solution is achieved.
Trial and Error is an effective when problems are not well-defined or when analytical methods are impractical, but it can be time-consuming and may not guarantee optimal solutions.
This method involves analysing concepts, frameworks, and principles to understand phenomena without necessarily conducting experiments or collecting empirical data.
The main advantage of using theoretical approach is that it can help save time and resources. However, the results may not be as accurate as practical approaches that involve direct observation or experimentation.
Creative solutions involve thinking 'outside the box' to tackle challenges whilst dealing with computers. They can lead to innovative and unexpected outcomes, often surpassing traditional or routine approaches.
The main strategy is to decrease and conquer. This involves finding solutions to smaller related problems until the instance is small enough to be solved directly.
A well-known celebrity is among a group of people at a gathering. The celebrity knows none of the other guests, but everybody knows the celebrity. How can you identify the celebrity by repeatedly asking the question "Do you know this person?"