Incorporating Computational Thinking in Mathematics through Block-Based Programming: Effects on Students’ Problem-Solving Skills
Article Sidebar
Main Article Content
Abstract
Computational thinking is considered a fundamental skill in the 21st century. It is a vital skill for students to empower their problem-solving skills through the growing presence of computer technology. As a result, this study utilized the Research and Development method with a Backward Curriculum design to develop Block-Based Programming-Integrated Mathematics Problem-Solving activities that aimed to incorporate computational thinking in block-based programming with mathematics learning competencies. The activities were implemented on Grade 7 students to investigate their problem-solving and computational thinking skills. Results suggest that the students generally exhibited the characteristics of problem-solving and computational thinking skills during the implementation. In addition, they also acquired some improvements. For students’ problem-solving skills, the improvements were marked by their acquired ability to 1) establish goals in problem understanding, 2) provide mathematical reasoning in solution planning, 3) draw on the application of mathematics concepts in solution execution, and 4) debug program errors in monitoring and evaluation. On the other hand, students’ computational thinking improvements were highlighted by their learned ability to 1) apply a rules-based and systematic approach in problem-solving for algorithmic thinking and 2) utilize patterns in generalizing solutions for pattern recognition. Based on the results, it can be concluded that the activities helped the students develop their problem-solving and computational thinking skills.
Article Details
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.
References
Andrian, R., & Hikmawan, R. (2021). The importance of computational thinking to train structured thinking in problem solving. Jurnal Online Informatika, 6(1), 113. https://doi.org/10.15575/join.v6i1.677
Angeli, C., Voogt, J., Fluck, A., Webb, M., Cox, M., Malyn-Smith, J., & Zagami, J. (2016). A K-6 Computational Thinking Curriculum Framework: Implications for Teacher Knowledge. Educational Technology & Society, 19 (3), 47–57.
Ayal C., Kusuma, Y., Sabandar, J., & Dahlan, J. (2016). The enhancement of mathematical reasoning ability of junior high school students by applying mind mapping strategy. JEP 7, 25-31
Bala, R. B. (2021). Scratch in Teaching Programming: Effect on Problem Solving Skill and Attitude. International Journal of Quality in Education, 5(2), 63-81.
Basogain, X., Olabe, M. Á., Olabe, J. C., & Rico, M. J. (2018). Computational thinking in pre-university blended learning classrooms. Computers in Human Behavior, 80, 412-419. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chb.2017.04.058
Bati K., Yetişir M. I., Çalişkan I., Güneş G., Saçan E. G. (2018). Teaching the concept of time: A steam-based program on computational thinking in science education. Cogent Education, 5(1), 1–16. https://doi.org/10.1080/2331186X.2018.1507306
Bocconi, S., Chioccariello, A., Dettori, G., Ferrari, A., Engelhardt, K., Kampylis, P., & Punie, Y. (2016). Developing Computational Thinking in Compulsory Education- Implications for policy and practice. Publications Office of the European Union. http://dx.doi.org/10.2791/792158
Borg, W., & Gall, M. (1983). Educational research: An introduction. Longman, New York.
Bouck, E. C., & Yadav, A. (2020). Providing access and opportunity for computational thinking and computer science to support mathematics for students with disabilities. Journal of Special Education Technology, 37(1), 151–160. https://doi.org/10.1177/ 0162643420978564
Brennan, K., & Resnick, M. (2012). New frameworks for studying and assessing the development of computational thinking [Conference session]. Proceedings of the 2012 annual meeting of the American Educational Research Association, Vancouver, Canada.
Çakiroglu, Ü., & Mumcu, S. (2020). Focus-fight-finalize (3F): Problem-solving steps extracted from behavioral patterns in block based programming. Journal of Educational Computing Research, 58(7), 1279–1310. https://doi.org/10.1177/0735633120930673.
Chao, P. Y. (2016). Exploring students’ computational practice, design and performance of problem solving through a visual programming environment. Computers & Education, 95, 202–215.
Cui, Z., Ng, O., & Jong, M. S.-Y. (2023). Integration of Computational Thinking with Mathematical Problem-based Learning: Insights on Affordances for Learning. Educational Technology & Society, 26(2), 131-146. https://doi.org/10.30191/ETS.202304_26(2).0010
Dagienė, V., Sentance, S., & Stupurienė, G. (2017). Developing a two-dimensional categorization system for educational tasks in informatics. Informatica, 28(1), 23-44. https://doi.org/10.15388/informatica.2017.119
Dasgupta, A., & Purzer, S. (2016). No patterns in pattern recognition: A systematic literature review. EEE Frontiers in Education Conference (FIE), 1–3. https://doi.org/10.1109/FIE.2016.7757676
Daulay, P., & Zaman, B. (2012). Pengembangan model penelusuran diskusi tutorial online melalui aplikasi faq (Frequently Ask Question). Jurnal Pendidikan Terbuka Dan Jarak Jauh, 13(2), 80-93.
De Chenne, A., & Lockwood, E. (2022). A Task to connect counting processes to lists of outcomes in combinatorics. The Journal of Mathematical Behavior, 65, 100932. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmathb.2021.100932
DepEd. (2012). K to 12 Mathematics Curriculum Guide. K to 12 Basic Education Curriculum. http://lrmds.deped.gov.ph/
Doğan, A. (2020). Algorithmic thinking in primary education. International Journal of Progressive Education, 16(4), 286–301. https://doi.org/10.29329/ijpe.2020.268.18
Durak, H. (2018). The effects of using different tools in programming teaching of secondary school students on engagement, computational thinking and reflective thinking skills for problem solving. Technology, Knowledge and Learning, 25(1), 179-195. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10758-018-9391-y
Fraillon, J., Ainley, J., Schulz, W., Duckworth, D., & Friedman, T. (2019). IEA international computer and information literacy study 2018 assessment framework. Springer.
Gay, L. R., Mills, G. E., & Airasian, P. W. (2012). Educational research: Competencies for analysis and applications. Pearson College Division.
Harimurti, R., Ekohariadi, E., Munoto, M., Asto B, I. G., & Winanti, E. T. (2019). Analysis of programming skills concept in developing problem solving skills. https://doi.org/10.21831/jptk.v25i1.22638
Hickmott, D., Prieto-Rodriguez, E., & Holmes, K. (2018). A Scoping review of studies on computational thinking in K–12 mathematics classrooms. Digital Experiences in Mathematics Education, 4(1), 48–69. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40751-017 0038-8
Hurt, T., Greenwald, E., Allan, S., Cannady, M. A., Krakowski, A., Brodsky, L., Collins, M. A., Montgomery, R., & Dorph, R. (2023). The computational thinking for science (CT-S) framework: operationalizing CT-S for K–12 science education researchers and educators. International Journal of STEM Education, 10(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40594-022-00391-7
Intel Education. (2011). Designing Effective Projects: Intel Teach Development Programs. Intel Corporation.
Israel-Fishelson., R. & Hershkovitz, A. (2022). Studying interrelations of computational thinking and creativity: A scoping review (2011–2020). Computers and Education, 176, 104353. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2021.104353
Jocius, R., Ian O’byrne, W., Albert, J., Joshi, D., Robinson, R., & Andrews, A. (2021). Infusing computational thinking into STEM teaching. Technology & Society, 24(4), 166–179.
Kalelioglu, F., & Gülbahar, Y. (2014). The effects of teaching programming via Scratch on problem solving skills: A discussion from learners’ perspective. Informatics in Education, 13(1), 33–50. https://doi.org/10.15388/infedu.2014.03
Kastner-Hauler, O., Tengler, K., Sabitzer, B., & Lavicza, Z. (2022). Combined effects of Block-Based Programming and Physical Computing on primary students’ computational thinking skills. Frontiers in Psychology, 13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.875382
Kim, C., Yuan, J., Vasconcelos, L., Shin, M., & Hill, R. B. (2018). Debugging during block-based programming. Instructional Science, 46(5), 767–787. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11251-018-9453-5
Kwon, K., & Cheon, J. (2019). Exploring problem decomposition and program development through block-based programs. International Journal of Computer Science Education in Schools, 3(1), 3-16. https://doi.org/10.21585/ijcses.v3i1.54
Lin, Y., Chen, S., Tsai, C., & Lai, Y. (2021). Exploring computational thinking skills training through augmented reality and AIoT learning. Frontiers in Psychology, 12. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.640115
Lu, J. & Fletcher, G.H. (2009). Thinking about computational thinking. ACM SIGCSE Bulletin, 41(1), 260-264. https://doi.org/10.1145/1539024.1508959
Lye, S. Y., & Koh, J. H. (2014). Review on teaching and learning of computational thinking through programming: What is next for K-12? Computers in Human Behavior, 41, 51-61. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chb.2014.09.012
McCain, T. (2005). Teaching for tomorrow: Teaching content and problem-solving skills. Corwin Press.
McClelland, K., & Grata, L. (2018). A Review of the Importance of Computa tional Thinking in K-12. The Tenth International Conference on Mobile, Hybrid, and On-line Learning, 32-34.
National Research Council, Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences, Computer Science and Telecommunications Board, & Committee for the Workshops on Computational Thinking. (2011). Report of a workshop on the pedagogical aspects of computational thinking. National Academies Press.
National Research Council. (2013). Education for life and work: Developing transferable knowledge and skills in the 21st century. Division of Behavioral and Social Sciences and Education, Board on Science Education, Board on Testing and Assessment, Committee on Defining Deeper Learning and 21st Century Skills. National Academies Press.
OECD. (2013). PISA 2012 assessment and analytical framework mathematics, reading, science, problem solving and financial literacy: Mathematics, reading, science, problem solving and financial literacy. OECD Publishing.
Oliveri, M. E., Lawless, R., & Molloy, H. (2017). A literature review on collaborative problem solving for college and workforce readiness. ETS Research Report Series, 2017(1), 1-27. https://doi.org/10.1002/ets2.12133
Özpınar, İ., & Arslan, S. (2023). Teacher-based evaluation of students’ problem solving skills. International Journal of Psychology and Educational Studies, 10(2), 543–560. https://doi.org/10.52380/ijpes.2023.10.2.1160
Priemer, B., Eilerts, K., Filler, A., Pinkwart, N., R¨ osken-Winter, B., Tiemann, R., & Zu Belzen, A. U. (2019). A framework to foster problem-solving in STEM and computing education. Research in Science & Technological Education, 38(1), 105-130. https://doi.org/10.1080/02635143.2019.1600490
Pršala, J. (2024). The effect of block-based programming activities on the computational thinking skills of pre-service primary school teachers. Journal of Pedagogical Sociology and Psychology. https://doi.org/10.33902/jpsp.202426267
Ran, H., Kasli, M., & Secada, W. (2020). A meta-analysis on computer technology intervention effects on mathematics achievement for low-performing students in K–12 classrooms. Journal of Educational Computing Research, 59(1), 119–153.
Sengupta, P., Dickes, A., & Farris, A. (2018). Toward a phenomenology of computational thinking in STEM education. In Springer eBooks (pp. 49–72). https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-93566-9_4
Sentance, S., & Csizmadia, A. (2016). Computing in the curriculum: Challenges and strategies from a teacher’s perspective. Education and Information Technologies, 22(2), 469-495. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10639-016-9482-0
Sumartini, T. S. (2018). Peningkatan Kemampuan Pemecahan Masalah Matematis Siswa melalui Pembelajaran Berbasis Masalah. Mosharafa: Jurnal Pendidikan Matematika, 5(2), 148–158. https://doi.org/10.31980/mosharafa.v5i2.270
Taylor, K. (2018). Computational Thinking Framework. Let’s Talk Science. Lon don, Ontario, Canada.
Totan, H. N., & Korucu, A. T. (2023). The Effect of Block Based Coding Education on the Students’ Attitudes about the Secondary School Students’ Computational Learning Skills and Coding Learning: Blocky Sample. Participatory Educational Research, 10(1), 443–461. https://doi.org/10.17275/per.23.24.10.1
Wei X., Lin L., Meng N., Tan W., Kong Kinshuk S. C. (2021). The effectiveness of partial pair programming on elementary school students’ computational thinking skills and self-efficacy. Computers and Education, 160, 104023. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2020.104023
Wiggins, G. P., & McTighe, J. (2011). The understanding by design guide to creating high-quality units. ASCD.
Wing, J. M. (2006). Computational thinking. Communications of the ACM, 49(3), 33-35. https://doi.org/10.1145/1118178.1118215
Wu, T., Asmara, A., Huang, Y., & Hapsari, I. P. (2024). Identification of Problem-Solving Techniques in Computational Thinking Studies: Systematic Literature review. SAGE Open, 14(2). https://doi.org/10.1177/21582440241249897
Ye, H., Liang, B., Ng, O.-L., & Chai, C. S. (2023). Integration of computational thinking in K-12 mathematics education: A systematic review on CT-based mathematics instruction and student learning. International Journal of STEM Education, 10(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40594-023-00396-w
Yu, Q., Yu, K., & Li, B. (2024). Effects of Block-Based Visual Programming on K-12 students’ learning outcomes. Journal of Educational Computing Research. https://doi.org/10.1177/07356331241293163
Yusoff, K. M., Sahari, N., Siti, T., & Mohd, N. (2020). Analysis on the requirements of computational thinking skills to overcome the difficulties in learning programming. International Journal of Advanced Computer Science and Applications, 11(3). https://doi.org/10.14569/ijacsa.2020.0110329
Zeng, Y., Yang, W., & Bautista, A. (2023). Teaching programming and computational thinking in early childhood education: a case study of content knowledge and pedagogical knowledge. Frontiers in Psychology, 14. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1252718