ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the computational algorithmic thinking (CAT) Capability Flow, which begins to describe the processes and sub-skills and capabilities involved in CAT. CAT is the ability to design, implement, and assess the implementation of algorithms to solve a range of problems. It involves identifying and understanding a problem, articulating an algorithm or set of algorithms in the form of a solution to the problem, implementing that solution in such a way that it solves the problem, and evaluating the solution based on some set of criteria. Additionally, Supporting Computational Algorithmic Thinking (SCAT) is both a longitudinal between-subjects exploratory research project and a free enrichment program supporting and guiding African-American girls over seven years as they iteratively design a set of games for social change. To develop the CAT Capability Flow, the researchers engage in an approach which results in an initial flowchart that depicts the processes students are engaging in as an iteratively refined articulation of the steps involved in CAT.
