By using programs designed for these purposes and by learning to write programs, students can develop modes and strategies of thinking that affect the way they think in situations that are not computer-related. Gifted children are believed to be particularly adept at learning to use the cognitive skills of analysis, synthesis, and evaluation. Analysis refers to the ability to break a skill or conceptual structure into its components. Synthesis is the building of complex skills or conceptual structures from simple parts. Some games and simulations are aimed at helping students develop these skills.
Creativity involves divergent thinking.
As is the case with the development of cognitive skills and problem-solving skills, students can explore their creative potential by using software that is designed specifically for that purpose or by creating their own unique and interesting programs. Some programs encourage students to write poetry, compose music, or draw pictures. Other programs show students how to develop strategies for creative writing. Teaching children to write computer programs also helps to develop thinking skills. Students are taught that a computer is very similar to the human mind.