A Comprehensive Analysis on Computational Thinking in Education: Open Issues and Challenges
Jethro Jarvis Roy Jyrwa, Chandra Jayaraman, Alwin Joseph · 2025
Computational thinking (CT) is a cognitive approach for solving problems using the concepts of algorithmic thinking, decomposition of a problem into components, identifying patterns among commonly occurring activities, and abstraction. CT promotes interdisciplinary learning and enhances problem-solving and logical reasoning abilities. In this study, a comprehensive analysis of the current issues and challenges of applying CT in the educational landscape is presented with a focus on the various assessment tools and their implementation in teaching methods. The study identifies the various techniques that can be used by educators to evaluate the skills of students based on their ability to solve problems that require CT. A systematic review of the available literature and related works was conducted to analyze their importance in CT, as well as their issues and challenges. This study finds that there is a need for a unified definition and implementation guidelines on CT. The available assessment tools mainly focus on programming constructs, leaving little room for evaluating abstract concepts as challenges in the field; hence, designing and developing assessment mechanisms are also required for effective implementation of CT in an academic context.