Mathematical Problem-Solving Performance of Eighth-Grade Programmers and Nonprogrammers

Literature Relating Critical Skills for Problem Solving in Mathematics and in Computer Programming

“…Even though two studies found no improvement in understanding of variables (Blume & Shoen, 1988;Kurland, et al, 1986), several other studies have found a positive effect. In studies of young children (Hart, 1982), secondary school students (McCoy, 1987, McCoy & Burton.…”

“…Conversely, Blume and Shoen (1988) found that their programming group (one semester of BASIC versus no programming) used significantly more looking back (or debugging) processes. They cited this difference as evidence that programming develops skills that transfer to other problem solving tasks.…”

“…That is, the students who had extensive programming experience were no different in ability to use variables from students who had some or no programming experience. Blume and Shoen (1988) also report no difference between junior high school programmers and nonprogrammers in variables and equations. McCoy (1987) studied 46 junior high and high school students at a computer camp.…”

“…One study, even though it had methodological flaws, provided at least weak support for the theory that planning activities associated with programming may improve general planning (White & Collins, 1983). Nonstructured discovery lessons in Logo (Pea & Kurland, 1984), a 1-semester BASIC course (Blume & Shoen, 1988), and varied experience with programming (Kurland et al, 1986) were shown not to improve planning skills. However, other studies have found that instruction in planning and design has a positive effect on planning skills, with a planning language or with the use of structure charts .…”

“…The researchers observed that those students who had been taught to use a structure diagram were better at planning (Dalbey, Tourniaire, & Linn, 1986). Blume and Shoen (1988) studied 54 eighth grade students, half of whom had completed one semester of BASIC instruction. They had the students think aloud as they solved five problems.…”