Integrating Computational Thinking Diagnostic Mechanism and Reflective Learning: An Innovative Approach to Enhance Learning Outcomes in Introductory Programming
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| Title: | Integrating Computational Thinking Diagnostic Mechanism and Reflective Learning: An Innovative Approach to Enhance Learning Outcomes in Introductory Programming |
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| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Ting-Ting Wu (ORCID |
| Source: | Journal of Computer Assisted Learning. 2025 41(5). |
| Availability: | Wiley. Available from: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030. Tel: 800-835-6770; e-mail: cs-journals@wiley.com; Web site: https://www.wiley.com/en-us |
| Peer Reviewed: | Y |
| Page Count: | 19 |
| Publication Date: | 2025 |
| Document Type: | Journal Articles Reports - Research |
| Education Level: | Higher Education Postsecondary Education |
| Descriptors: | Computation, Thinking Skills, Educational Diagnosis, Diagnostic Tests, Programming, Computer Science Education, Introductory Courses, Programming Languages, Undergraduate Students, Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, Creativity |
| DOI: | 10.1111/jcal.70121 |
| ISSN: | 0266-4909 1365-2729 |
| Abstract: | Background: Conventional reflective learning methodologies in programming education often lack structured guidance and individualised feedback, limiting their pedagogical effectiveness. Whilst computational thinking (CT) offers a systematic problem-solving framework with decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithm design, its potential application as a diagnostic instrument for reflection remains insufficiently explored within programming education. Objectives: This study aims to develop and evaluate a CT-based diagnostic reflective report system as a technological intervention to facilitate structured reflective learning in programming education. Furthermore, it investigates the impact of this system on knowledge construction, higher-order thinking skills (HOTS), and project performance within an introductory Python programming course. Methods: The study employed a quasi-experimental design spanning two academic semesters, involving 82 undergraduate students randomly assigned to experimental (n = 42) and control (n = 40) groups. The experimental group utilised weekly CT-based diagnostic reflective reports, whilst the control group engaged in traditional reflective practises. The curriculum integrated Python programming with Raspberry Pi embedded systems. Assessment measures included pre- and post-tests for knowledge construction, a validated questionnaire for HOTS evaluation, and the Creative Product Analysis Matrix (CPAM) for project performance assessment. Results and Conclusions: Implementation of the CT-based diagnostic reflective report system demonstrated statistically significant improvements in knowledge construction, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills compared to traditional approaches. Project performance metrics, including valuable, logical, useful, understandable, and well-crafted, showed marked enhancement. However, no significant impact was observed regarding creativity. These findings substantiate the efficacy of integrating CT diagnostic mechanisms with reflective learning practises. |
| Abstractor: | As Provided |
| Entry Date: | 2025 |
| Accession Number: | EJ1484310 |
| Database: | ERIC |
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Nájsť tento článok vo Web of Science | Abstract: | Background: Conventional reflective learning methodologies in programming education often lack structured guidance and individualised feedback, limiting their pedagogical effectiveness. Whilst computational thinking (CT) offers a systematic problem-solving framework with decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithm design, its potential application as a diagnostic instrument for reflection remains insufficiently explored within programming education. Objectives: This study aims to develop and evaluate a CT-based diagnostic reflective report system as a technological intervention to facilitate structured reflective learning in programming education. Furthermore, it investigates the impact of this system on knowledge construction, higher-order thinking skills (HOTS), and project performance within an introductory Python programming course. Methods: The study employed a quasi-experimental design spanning two academic semesters, involving 82 undergraduate students randomly assigned to experimental (n = 42) and control (n = 40) groups. The experimental group utilised weekly CT-based diagnostic reflective reports, whilst the control group engaged in traditional reflective practises. The curriculum integrated Python programming with Raspberry Pi embedded systems. Assessment measures included pre- and post-tests for knowledge construction, a validated questionnaire for HOTS evaluation, and the Creative Product Analysis Matrix (CPAM) for project performance assessment. Results and Conclusions: Implementation of the CT-based diagnostic reflective report system demonstrated statistically significant improvements in knowledge construction, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills compared to traditional approaches. Project performance metrics, including valuable, logical, useful, understandable, and well-crafted, showed marked enhancement. However, no significant impact was observed regarding creativity. These findings substantiate the efficacy of integrating CT diagnostic mechanisms with reflective learning practises. |
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| ISSN: | 0266-4909 1365-2729 |
| DOI: | 10.1111/jcal.70121 |