Computational Thinking in Primary School Through Block-Based Programming

Computational Thinking is one of the main topics on the educational policy agenda of many countries throughout the world. Its introduction into compulsory education is on the way, and there is an urgent need to define how it can be integrated into the class activities. This chapter discusses several advantages and some drawbacks of the use of a visual block based programming environment to foster computational thinking skills in primary schools. A longitudinal study in primary schools using Scratch is reported, and some general considerations are outlined.