Integrating Computational Thinking into Mathematics Education: Its Effects On Achievement, Motivation, And Learning Strategies

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the impact of mathematics instruction supplemented with CT activities on mathematics achievement, motivation, and learning techniques. A quasi-experimental research design involving a pretest-posttest control group was used for the present study. Research was carried out in a Turkish middle school with sixth-grade pupils in a mathematics class. The courses were provided via CT tasks to the experimental group. CT tasks were performed using a scratch-block-based coding tool. The results showed that the experimental group had much higher mathematical performance than the control group. Furthermore, substantial differences were discovered in favor of the experimental group in the motivation scale sub-dimension of learning control belief and the learning methods scale sub-dimension of time and study environment. The results of this research show that mathematics instruction supplemented with CT activities is effective in enhancing students' mathematical achievement. This helps students to organize their study time and environment effectively. This also reinforces the belief that learning objectives provide successful outcomes. Thus, computer laboratories should be considered essential alternatives for mathematical instruction.