The ClickIT Club, affiliated with the Department of Information Sciences at the College of Life Sciences, in collaboration with the ACM Club and the Women in Data Science Initiative, organized an introductory lecture entitled: "Designing a Virtual World Experience to Enhancing Computational Thinking in Young Learners." The lecture was presented by Dr. Safia Malallah, Assistant Professor at Kansas State University, USA, on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at the College of Life Sciences. The lecture was attended by a number of faculty and administrative staff members and students. 

Dr. Malallah began by explaining the transformation in children's interaction with technology over the past decade. The dilemma is no longer one of "regulating usage" but rather one of "directing this use toward safe, educational, and effective content." She noted that platforms like Roblox, used by more than (28) million children daily, represent a promising digital environment if harnessed in a thoughtful educational manner. 

Dr. Malallah presented her research experience through her pioneering project, "CT Island," an interactive virtual world specifically designed to teach children computational thinking skills through fun educational games and activities. The project includes four main educational areas representing STEM fields: the Circus Tent (engineering), the Flamingo Arena (programming), Escape Rooms with Grandma "Skirly" (data science), and the Recycling Area (artificial intelligence). 

During the lecture, she also reviewed several scenarios that reflect children's interaction with these areas through design, programming, data analysis, and challenge management activities. Among these activities was teaching children how to sort waste using artificial intelligence in a simplified and engaging manner. 

Dr. Malallah highlighted the importance of supporting computer science education from an early age and linking it to play, emphasizing that adopting interactive digital curricula such as these will bring about a qualitative shift in the skills of the digital generation and contribute to preparing a critical and creative generation capable of keeping pace with technological developments. 

On this occasion, Dr. Sheikha Al-Khader said, "This symposium provided a rich insight into computational thinking for children, highlighting its importance in developing problem-solving and logical thinking skills from an early age. The symposium was a valuable addition to students, especially those in computer-related disciplines, as it combined technical depth with a forward-looking educational vision." She added, "We are grateful to Dr. Safia Malallah for her valuable time and inspiring presentation, which left a positive impact on the audience." 

It is worth noting that this lecture is part of a series of activities organized by the Clickit Club, affiliated with the Department of Information Sciences in the College of Life Sciences, to promote digital awareness and adopt modern teaching methods that keep pace with the requirements of sustainable development. This lecture contributes to supporting interactive and technical education, as part of the college and department's commitment to linking academics with effective practical and technical application.