A groundbreaking new book, "Child-Friendly Computer Science: Fostering Computational Thinking, Engineering Thinking, and AI Literacy," has been published by Bloomsbury, offering a vital guide to preparing the next generation for a digital future. Authored by leading experts Dr Yang Weipeng from the ECE Department at The Education University of Hong Kong and Dr Su Jiahong from the School of Computing and Data Science at The University of Hong Kong, the book addresses the urgent need to integrate foundational tech literacy into early childhood and primary education.
Moving beyond simple coding exercises, the book presents a holistic framework that weaves together Computational Thinking (problem-solving), Engineering Thinking (design and creation), and AI Literacy (understanding and using artificial intelligence ethically). It argues that these competencies are as essential as traditional literacy and numeracy in the 21st century.
"Many educational approaches to technology focus solely on skills like programming," said Dr Yang. "Our vision is to cultivate a deeper mindset—a way of thinking that empowers children to be creative problem-solvers and informed designers of technology, not just passive users."
Dr Su added, "with AI becoming ubiquitous, it's crucial that children learn to interact with it critically and responsibly from an early age. This book provides research evidence and practical strategies to demystify AI concepts and foster both curiosity and caution."
The book is packed with theories and frameworks, age-appropriate pedagogical models, and real-world examples. It serves as an essential resource for researchers, policymakers, teacher educators, preservice and in-service teachers, curriculum designers, and forward-thinking parents who aim to foster digital wellbeing in a balanced and child-friendly way.
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About the Authors
Dr Yang Weipeng is currently an Associate Professor in the Department of Early Childhood Education at The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK), and serves as the Associate Director of the AI, Brain and Child Research Centre (ABC-RC). His academic achievements have gained international recognition, and he has been listed among the top 2% most-cited scientists worldwide in the career-long impact list released by Stanford University. His research focuses on learning design and technology for children, covering areas such as computational thinking, coding play, educational robotics, and AI literacy. Dr Yang has led several significant research projects, including the Early Career Scheme (ECS) and the General Research Fund (GRF). In terms of academic service, he held/holds editorial roles as Editor-in-Chief, Triage Editor, Associate Editor, and Editorial Board Member for multiple international academic journals, and he has received the EdUHK President’s Award.
Dr Su Jiahong graduated from The University of Hong Kong, with her main research area focusing on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and education. Her recent research concentrates on the innovative application of AI technologies in educational settings. She has led the development of an AI literacy assessment platform and instructional design support tools for K-12 students and teachers. Her academic contributions have gained international recognition, and she was listed among the top 2% most-cited scientists worldwide in the 2025 single-year impact list released by Stanford University. She also serves as an editorial board member for several international academic journals. Prior to this, she worked in early childhood education institutions in Hong Kong and Mainland China, where she was involved in the development and teaching of programming and AI introductory courses for young children.