Credentialing Computation: Empowering Teachers in Computational Thinking Through Educator Microcredentials

This chapter details Digital Promise’s development and implementation of educator micro-credentials (MCs) in computational thinking (CT). The chapter is divided into three sections. The first section details Digital Promise’s development of educator MCs in CT both in terms of relevant concepts (e.g., students’ understanding & creating algorithms) and best pedagogical practices (e.g., effectively assessing CT). The development process detailed in Part I is framed by the wider backdrop on competency-based education in the United States. The second part, details the implementation of the MC model and highlights select MC submissions from participating educators. The third and final part looks ahead to the future of CT MCs as an increasingly viable means for educators to demonstrate instructional mastery in the area of CT. Given the remarkable national demand for CS/CT instruction, there is an imperative for alternative models and pathways for CS/CT teacher preparation. The chapter closes examining the future potential of MCs as a means to teacher professional learning and as an alternative pathway for for statewide teacher endorsement and certification in CS/CT education.