From Computing to Computational Thinking

Chapter 8

Solve That Problem

Computers are universal machines that can be programmed to perform almost any task. They allow us to automate solutions to problems. Such solutions can be performed by computers repeatedly, reliably, precisely, and with great speed. Not all problems lend themselves to automated solutions. But CT demands that we try to find solutions that can be automated.

The stages of computer automation are conceptualization, algorithm design, program design, and program implementation. In other words, programmers must devise solution strategies, implement algorithms, and write program code to achieve the desired results.

Specifying and implementing solution algorithms requires precise and water-tight thinking. Also required is ...