Research Status in Computational Thinking in STEM Education

Abstract

Computational thinking (CT) is an approach to problem-solving that has its roots in computer science. However, its inherent value in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines cannot be over-emphasized, considering that we are in the fourth industrial revolution. The chapter draws attention to its close affinity to problem-solving and programming, and the impact of computational thinking on the labour market, and in turn the digital economy is highlighted. A global overview of recent research findings and initiatives to implement CT education in school curricula are discussed. Because of the importance of STEM education, and the inherent value of CT, it is necessary to explore the status and inclinations of CT in STEM disciplines. Hence, a snapshot of research over the last two years was used in a systematic review to determine the trends and challenges for integrating CT in the curriculum of STEM related fields. Using the ERIC database of journals, and specific criteria for selection of publications, 31 articles were examined in this study. Overall, it was found several tools and instructional strategies are used to develop CT, but more needs to be done to increase teachers’ knowledge and enactment for CT in the STEM fields.