On the Predictors of Computational Thinking Measured With the Computational Thinking Scales: Evidence From Switzerland

• In Event: Computer and Internet Applications in Education Poster Session

Abstract

Computational thinking (CT) is a key 21st-century skill. This paper aims at investigating predictors of the CT level among high-school students. The hypothesized predictors are grouped into three areas: (1) student characteristics, (2) home environment, and (3) learning opportunities. CT is measured with the Computational Thinking Scales (CTS) that comprises five dimensions: Creativity, Algorithmic thinking, Cooperativity, Critical thinking, and Problem solving. N = 202 high-school students act as the sample and linear regression as the analysis method. The best prediction is possible for Algorithmic thinking (R2 = .503); for Cooperativity, it is unsatisfactory (R2 = .059). Other than hypothesized, the female gender positively predicts Creativity and Critical Thinking. Across the five dimensions, the CT self-concept is the best predictor.

Author

• Josef Guggemos, University of St.Gallen