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Learning western literature through computational thinking #142

The study aims to discuss the extent to which project-based learning (PjBL) involved in digital technology can create an environment for Computational Thinking (CT), which in turn might enhance the learning of Western literature in the Expanding Circle where English is used as a foreign language. While PjBL and CT have gained much attention from educators in Taiwan, teachers of literature are confronting a serious challenge resulting from students’ doubts about the function and practicality of learning literature. It is in such a context that I blend CT into a required course for English majors 2019-2020, “Introduction to Western Literature.” One purpose of this study is to observe how students’ familiarity with computer and the Internet enables them to concretize and present their understanding of literature. The other purpose is to utilize the elements of CT in class activities so that students could learn to simplify literary works by systemizing information and organizing ideas in the process of completing such projects as story creation, mind map, and micro movie. The result of this study is based on the execution of students’ projects, along with the instructor’s observations, and the analysis of a post-activity questionnaire.