Enhancing Early Childhood Students' Computational Thinking Competency Through Digital Game-Based Learning

Strategic Insights -

Researchers at Kafkas University have explored the effectiveness of digital game-based learning in developing computational thinking skills in 5-year-old pre-school children. The study, published in the International Journal of Cognitive Research in Science, Engineering and Education, involved 50 students divided into experimental and control groups. The experimental group underwent a 4-week training activity using digital games, while the control group received traditional instruction. The study found that digital game-based learning positively affected the development of computational thinking skills in early childhood.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study investigated the impact of digital game-based learning on computational thinking skills in 5-year-old pre-school children.
  • The experimental group consisted of 25 students who received 4-week digital game-based learning, while the control group consisted of 25 students who received traditional instruction.
  • The study used an achievement test and an evaluation rubric as data collection tools.
  • The findings showed that digital game-based learning positively affected the development of computational thinking skills in early childhood.
  • Recommendations were made to integrate digital games into relevant educational programs and promote computational thinking at an early age.
  • The study suggests that digital game-based learning can be a powerful tool for developing computational thinking skills in students at a young age.
  • The researchers recommend that educators consider incorporating digital game-based learning into their curricula to enhance students' computational thinking skills.

Statistics:

  • 50 students participated in the study.
  • 25 students were in the experimental group.
  • 25 students were in the control group.
  • The study lasted for 4 weeks.
  • The achievement test and evaluation rubric were used as data collection tools.
  • The study found a positive impact on computational thinking skills in early childhood.

Sources:

  • Enhancing Early Childhood Students' Computational Thinking Competency Through Digital Game-Based Learning. International Journal of Cognitive Research in Science, Engineering and Education, 2025, 13(2).
  • https://doi-org.sdpl.idm.oclc.org/10.23947/2334-8496-2025-13-2-365-378.