Exploring the effectiveness of pair programming in developing students' computational thinking skills through Scratch

Abstract

Pair programming (PP) is a useful strategy to promote computational thinking (CT) among students. Studies have shown that PP under appropriate conditions can enhance student achievement and increase their motivation in learning programming. Furthermore, studies have also shown that Scratch, a graphical block-based programming language, enables student learning in programming to become more interesting, more challenging and more creative. This study explored the effectiveness of PP in developing students’ CT skills through Scratch in a Singapore secondary school. The findings suggest that PP is more effective than the solo programming, both in supporting and enhancing students’ learning and understanding of basic programming concepts and CT skills, as well as on improving students’ motivation toward programming. Limitations of this study and implications for teaching are also discussed.