What Is the Relationship Between Computer Science Instruction and Reading and Math Performance?

• In Event: Teaching and Learning: Computers and Learning — Mathematics and Science Education

Abstract

The Computer Science for All initiative has led to many school districts implementing computing curricula at the elementary level. At that age, students are learning the foundational skills of reading and math. It is important to understand how computing can influence the development of these skills. While it is commonly believed that learning computing sharpens problem-solving skills that are transferable to other subjects, evidence supporting this belief is thin. A quasi-experimental study demonstrated that computing instruction was associated with performance gains in math, but not reading. These results suggest that computing supports the development of skills transferable to math, a step towards better understanding the relationship between computing and other subjects.

Authors

• Jean Salac, University of Chicago

• Cathy Newman Thomas, Texas State University

• Chloe Butler, Texas State University

• Diana Franklin, University of Chicago