A ‘Concrete, Pictorial and Abstract’ Approach to early level Computing Science

There are clear similarities with the order and progression of early level Computing Science and early level Numeracy and Maths play and learning.

go to ELC computing home

We can use a concrete – pictorial  – abstract concept in Computing Science, similar to how we introduce mathematical concepts e.g. counting concrete objects such as pebbles, progressing onto subitising with visuals or with dice then finally counting in our heads with no prompts to help us. 

In early level Computing Science, we begin to learn about algorithms. We look at the concrete stage as using our bodies, physical devices and objects we can physically manipulate. We might explore the range of activities from Barefoot Computing, Hello Ruby and CS Unplugged. We do not need programmable devices to delve into early level computing science. We can even explore algorithms through dancing! 

At the pictorial stage, we are looking at block-based coding and using visuals suitable for pre-readers, e.g., pictorial algorithms such as visual timetables and simple sequences of instructions for baking and creating and retelling stories.  We might also begin to explore coding apps such as Scratch Jnr and websites such as Code.org

Later on, in the abstract stage, we are looking at more complex coding, with fewer pictures and more words, introducing coding languages, such as Javascript and Python.

ELC Independent Learning Pathway

This page contains links to pre recorded webinars focusing on early level Computing Science, from an introduction to the Experiences and Outcomes and where Computing Science is in the world all-around us, to understanding computational thinking strategies through unplugged Computing Science explorations, investigating pictorial and visual representations and finally tinkering with programmable devices.

At the bottom of the page, you can browse the resources mentioned in the webinar recordings.

go to ELC computing home

This webinar was delivered to raise and support practitioner awareness of the National advice, guidance and where to access a wealth of free learning and teaching resources to embed computing science at early level. This session welcomed practitioners working with learners are in ELC or Primary School AND all other practitioners who work with learners at any level, with an interest in creatively embedding computing science their learning environment.

This webinar focussed on how we create experiences and spaces that allows computing science to be embedded at the early level through play and where we can access a wealth of free learning and teaching resources to embed unplugged computing science at the early level. It explored a range of unplugged activity ideas and the concepts, approaches and key vocabulary of computational thinking. 

In this webinar recording, we explore programmable devices and online coding and computing science resources/apps and discuss how to introduce them via play at early level. This webinar builds on content delivered in the prior two webinars. 

Additional live code-along and play-along webinar recordings.

Computing Science information and resources

What Does Computing Science Look Like at early level?

  

Many of the concepts and approaches of Computing Science will already be familiar to you. By looking at the Sway and video below, and on the ELC Computing Science Learning Pathway page, we think you will recognise that you are already embedding Computing Science through play, perhaps without even realising it, in your environment, daily interactions and experiences you provide for the children in your care.

go to ELC computing home

How can we ensure children are growing up to be creative thinkers and problem solvers?

We can provide them with the opportunities, the time and the space to explore, tinker, investigate and experiment!

primary computing science

Primary Computing Science

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go to digilearn CS home

Digital Learner diagram (landscape)

Computing Science information and resources

CLPL

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ELC Practitioner Feedback Opportunity, help shape the future of Digital CLPL

There is a draft ELC practitioner Digital Literacy Framework / list of core skills currently required to enable practitioners to use them for communication, collaboration, planning, facilitating learning, capturing/documenting learning, and assessing learning

We would like to hear your feedback, to ensure the core skills are relevant to your every day practice and welcome your feedback.

We would also welcome feedback on where CLPL is required to enable you to develop confidence and knowledge of the core skills. This will inform the webinars that we will offer Nationally.

If you would like to help shape future ELC practitioner support in Digital Literacy, please click on the link to the Form and submit your feedback through this anonymous survey. The survey will take approximately 1O  minutes to complete.

ELC Practitioner Feedback – Digital Literacy Framework / Core Skills

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This session is part of the This is Developing Your Digital Literacy Curriculum CLPL programme. Participants explore the digital skills and knowledge required for being as safe and secure online as possible, with skills for now and the future with ‘big ideas’ like:

  • What are children and young people doing online?
  • How can I keep up with all the new apps, websites and games learners use?
  • What can I do to help keep them safe online?

Examples of digital literacy partners, resources and planning will be shared.

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This session is part of the This is Developing Your Digital Literacy Curriculum CLPL programme. Participants explore the digital skills and knowledge required for being as safe and secure online as possible, with skills for now and the future with ‘big ideas’ like:

  • What are children and young people doing online?
  • How can I keep up with all the new apps, websites and games learners use?
  • What can I do to help keep them safe online?

Examples of digital literacy partners, resources and planning will be shared.

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Digital Teacher diagram (landscape)

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This session is part of the This is Cyber Resilience/Internet Safety CLPL programme. Participants explore the digital skills and knowledge required for being as safe and secure online as possible, with skills for now and the future with ‘big ideas’ like:

  • What are children and young people doing online?
  • How can I keep up with all the new apps, websites and games learners use?
  • What can I do to help keep them safe online?

Examples of digital literacy partners, resources and planning will be shared.

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Digital Teacher diagram (landscape)

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Planning and Teaching Cyber (This is Cyber)

30/08/23 and 17/01/24

This session is part of the This is Developing Your Digital Literacy Curriculum CLPL programme. Participants explore the digital skills and knowledge required for being as safe and secure online as possible, with skills for now and the future with ‘big ideas’ like:

  • What are children and young people doing online?
  • How can I keep up with all the new apps, websites and games learners use?
  • What can I do to help keep them safe online?

Examples of digital literacy partners, resources and planning will be shared.

Sign up soon

Digital Teacher diagram (landscape)