Paper Title
Applying Open Hardware to Facilitate Computational Thinking Learning

Abstract
Wing (2006) proposed the concepts of computational thinking and stressed that every child should learn computational thinking as well as reading, writing, and calculation [1]. Computational thinking emphasized the ability to use computer science knowledge to solve problems. The process includes problem decomposition, pattern recognition, generalization and algorithm design. Due to its lower price and easiness to assemble, open hardware has been used as learning tool to facilitate programming learning or computer science study. Positive results have been reported in many researches [2]-[5]. With its cheap price, Arduino being an open hardware platform has been applied widely to programming learning in recent years. This study tried to apply Arduino to computational thinking learning. One programming project called automatic driving car was designed to enhance learners� computational thinking, including problem decomposition and algorithm design. Arduino board, sensors and motor were applied to the assembly of automatic driving car. Sensors detecting the distance of objects provide information for motors to control the car�s direction. Thus, the car will reach the destination successfully by itself. The programming project included six classes. Twenty-eight junior high school students participated in this study to finish the programming project. Class hand-out was provided to assist learning. Students were asked to write one questionnaire after finishing the programming project to express their attitudes toward this study. The questionnaire results indicate that most students felt the learning content is interesting and challenging. Students think that the process to assemble car hardware including Arduino board, sensors, motor and other components is interesting. However, only about 30% of students agreed the level of the learning content is appropriate while 20% of students thought it is too difficult. Many students indicated that they had too much cognitive load when they need to finish hardware assemble and understand the programming concepts at the same time. With regard to the learning of computation thinking, students thought they have learned the concepts of decomposing and algorithm design. Furthermore, they also appreciated that programming and electronics-related concepts were also enhanced. Meanwhile, nearly 80% of students agreed that this project provided them opportunities to learn about teamwork. Overall, most students showed positive attitudes toward applying open hardware to computational thinking learning. Students� comments will be referred in further learning content revision. Index Terms- Computational Thinking, Open Hardware, Computer Science Education