The influence of block-based programming to computational thinking skills: A systematic review.

Computational Thinking (CT) is an important skill to master in the 21st century. There are several ways that are believed to be able to improve students' CT skills, one of which is the use of block-based programming. Thinking concepts in CT include problem-solving, systems design, and understanding human behavior in terms of basic computer science concepts. Block-based programming is relatively easy to teach because the interface is easier to use, uses natural language, can perform block searches and uses drag and drop interactions. Given the importance of CT skills for students as well as some of the conveniences offered by using block-based programming, it is surprising that this topic has not been explored much. This paper provides a review on 20 papers with a systematic review method, which provides evidence of the influence of block-based programming to computational thinking skills. This systematic review has adopted Chitu Okoli and Kira Schabram framework as the premise for defining and identifying the influence of block-based programming to computational thinking skills. The main findings in this paper is used of block-based programming can affect some of students CT skills through several different delivery methods but there are still some different opinions about the effect on students problem-solving abilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]