A2 Refereed review article in a scientific journal
Computational Thinking in Technology-Supported Primary Mathematics: A Systematic Review; 
Authors: Jasutė, Eglė; Parviainen, Marika; Dagienė, Valentina
Publisher: University of Latvia
Publication year: 2026
Journal: Baltic Journal of Modern Computing
Volume: 14
Issue: 2
First page : 328
Last page: 355
ISSN: 2255-8942
eISSN: 2255-8950
DOI: https://doi.org/10.22364/bjmc.2026.14.2.04
Publication's open availability at the time of reporting: Open Access
Publication channel's open availability : Open Access publication channel
Web address : https://doi.org/10.22364/bjmc.2026.14.2.04
Self-archived copy’s web address: https://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/527096265
Self-archived copy's licence: CC BY
Self-archived copy's version: Publisher`s PDF
This systematic review synthesizes research on how technology-supported approaches to computational thinking (CT) are integrated into primary mathematics learning environments. Following a PRISMA-guided search, 18 studies published between 2016 and 2025 were analyzed to examine how digital tools support CT-related mathematical learning processes in primary school settings. The review identifies recurring patterns linking mathematical domains, CT constructs, and technological environments, illustrating how programming platforms, robotics, game-based tools, and analytics-supported systems are used to structure mathematical problemsolving activities. Across the intervention studies, several reported improvements in students’ mathematical problem-solving and reasoning skills. However, the strength of the evidence varies across studies due to differences in study design, sample size, and assessment methods. The analysis further highlights how technology can support CT-informed instructional design by enabling programmable tasks, iterative testing of solutions, and, in some cases, analyticssupported feedback for teachers and students. At the same time, the review points out ongoing
gaps in methodological rigor, assessment of the CT construct, and the scalability of interventions. These findings underscore the need for more rigorous, long-term, classroom-based research to strengthen the evidence for CT-integrated primary mathematics education.
Keywords:
computational thinking (CT), primary mathematics education, Technology-enhanced learning
Downloadable publication This is an electronic reprint of the original article. |
Funding information in the publication:
This study (No P-EDU-23-13) is co-funded by the European Union through the project “Breakthrough in Educational Research” No 10-044-P-0001, under the April 1, 2025, Agreement with the Research Council of Lithuania and the April 15, 2025, Joint Activity Agreement with Vilnius University. Additional funding is provided by the Research Council of Finland (EDUCA Flagship #358924, #358947) and the Ministry of Education and Culture (Doctoral School Pilot #VN/3137/2024-OKM-4).