The Impact of Creative Computing on Preservice Elementary Teachers’ Beliefs About Teaching Coding (Poster 19)

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Sunday 1:30 p.m.
  In Poster Session: Instructional Technology SIG Poster Presentations

Abstract

Elementary educators often lack the preparation, confidence, and belief in the value of computer science (CS) essential for teaching computing, which negatively impacts their inclination to teach computing. This pre-/posttest mixed methods study developed and implemented a Creative Computing instructional module in an online teacher preparation educational technology course. The module integrated creativity into computational thinking and block-based coding instruction to improve preservice elementary teachers’ CS learning experiences and CS teaching beliefs. Participants reported significantly higher CS teaching beliefs after completing the module. Qualitative data revealed that many participants would consider using Scratch for teaching coding and enhancing creativity. However, they also expressed frustration with teaching computational thinking, reflecting their lack of significant gains in computational thinking efficacy.

Authors

• Elena Novak, Kent State University

• Janet Lynne Tassell, Western Kentucky University

• Chia-Ling Kuo, Kent State University