Accessibility Menu

Education systems across the United States—and around the world—are facing the same urgent question: How do we prepare students for a future shaped by AI, data, and constant change?

International policy discussions, including those guided by the OECD, stress that the answer isn’t adding new standalone subjects, but transforming how core disciplines—especially mathematics—are taught.

What Is Computational Thinking?

Computational thinking is now widely recognized as a key skill for today’s learners. Jeanette Wing (2006) defined it as:

“The thought processes involved in formulating problems and their solutions so that the solutions can be represented in a form that can be effectively carried out by an information-processing agent.”

In practice, this means helping students learn to:

• Break complex problems into smaller, manageable parts.
• Identify patterns and connections.
• Focus on the most relevant information.
• Design step-by-step solutions (algorithms) that people or machines can follow.

This isn’t just a computer science skill. The OECD and other leading education organizations emphasize that computational thinking should be nurtured in mathematics, where problem-solving naturally provides the foundation.

The Growing Importance of Data Literacy

Alongside this, data literacy has become another essential 21st-century skill. Students need to acquire, represent, and interpret data; manage uncertainty; evaluate risk; and critically assess information—including spotting misinformation.

International guidelines are clear: these skills belong in the mathematics curriculum. They’re already embedded in global benchmarks such as the PISA exams, which highlight real-world problem-solving and the ability to adapt to unfamiliar challenges.

The challenge isn’t defining what’s needed—it’s creating the conditions, through curriculum updates, professional development, and resources, that empower teachers to confidently integrate these skills into their classrooms.

Matific’s Contribution

Matific is uniquely aligned with the global vision for 21st-century learning. Our platform weaves computational thinking, data literacy, and problem-solving directly into mathematics from the earliest grades.

This approach ensures that:

• 21st-century skills start early: Students build critical thinking and problem-solving abilities from a young age.
• Skills are integrated, not isolated: Children naturally practice computational and data thinking within math, rather than in separate or disconnected lessons.
• Global standards are met: Matific reflects the vision set by top international education bodies, ensuring relevance and compliance everywhere.

Shaping Future-Ready Learners

The global consensus is clear: computational thinking and data literacy aren’t optional extras—they’re central to the future of education. Mathematics is the natural home for these skills, and integrating them effectively is the key challenge for schools and education leaders.

At Matific, we’re committed to driving this transformation. By combining rigorous pedagogy with engaging digital experiences, we help students move beyond rote memorization to become confident problem-solvers ready for the challenges of the 21st century.

Join us in shaping the future of education. Matific partners with schools and districts across the U.S. and worldwide to embed computational thinking and data literacy into mathematics from the very start of a child’s learning journey.