Many researches indicate that programming learning could help improve problem solving skills through algorithmic thinking. But in general, programming learning has been focused on programming language features and it also gave a heavy cognitive load to learners. Therefore, this paper proposes a programming activity process to improve novice programming learners' algorithmic thinking efficiently. An experiment was performed to measure the effectiveness of the proposed programming activity process. After the experiment, the learners' perception on programming was shown to be changed, to effective activity in improving problem solving.

Abstract-Modeling is used as a learning method because learners can experience a conceptual change. These days, computers are used in modeling activity to perform the modeling process effectively and efficiently in classroom. Therefore, this study developed contents for mathematical modeling class using Spreadsheet and GSP, computer-based modeling tools instructors can easily experience. After development, we applied the contents to actual classwork, and measured the changes in students' attitudes toward mathematics and technology before and after the classwork. As a result of the application of the program, this work brought about the educational effects as follows: First, computer-based modeling activity increased one's self-esteem in using technology. Secondly, experiencing mathematical modeling with computers was instrumental in learning mathematics. Thirdly, computer modeling activity positively increased students' attitudes toward mathematics and technology.Index Terms-Computer modeling tools, ill-structured problem, spreadsheet, GSP.

Abstract-Computational thinking is a fundamental skill for living in the 21st century. The essence of computational thinking is abstraction and automation. Computer science and the concept of automation is affecting various parts our lives. The concept of automation can be improved through the programming activities to design an algorithm, and to implement using a programming language. In this paper, we propose modeling and simulation steps in a programming activity that can learn the concept of automation. And, we are trying to see how modeling and simulation steps can help in the process of modeling practical problems and how they can solve them.

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