A2 Refereed review article in a scientific journal

Computational Thinking in Technology-Supported Primary Mathematics: A Systematic Review;




AuthorsJasutė, Eglė; Parviainen, Marika; Dagienė, Valentina

PublisherUniversity of Latvia

Publication year2026

Journal: Baltic Journal of Modern Computing

Volume14

Issue2

First page 328

Last page355

ISSN2255-8942

eISSN2255-8950

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.22364/bjmc.2026.14.2.04

Publication's open availability at the time of reportingOpen 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 addresshttps://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/527096265

Self-archived copy's licenceCC BY

Self-archived copy's versionPublisher`s PDF


Abstract

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 educationTechnology-enhanced learning

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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).


Last updated on 18/08/2026 01:18:56 PM