Analysis on the Requirements of Computational Thinking Skills to Overcome the Difficulties in Learning Programming

Programming has evolved as an effort to strengthen science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Programming is a complex process, especially for novices, since it requires problem-solving skills to solve problems of developing algorithms and programme codes. Problem-solving competencies, which are necessary as 21st-century skills, include a set of cognitive skills that are related to problem-solving and programme development or specifically known as computational thinking (CT) skills. In particular, this study quantitatively assessed the computational thinking skills in the context of programming, specifically on the difficulties in learning programming. From the perspectives of the instructors, the survey results highlighted the need to implement CT skills as an approach in teaching and learning programming. A model for teaching and learning programming is necessary as a guide for instructors in the teaching and learning process of programming.