Effectiveness of Coding in Enhancing Computational Thinking among Elementary School Students: A Literature Review 2020–2025

Martiana Putri Listiowati; Tri Astuti; Ellianawati Ellianawati; Bambang Subali

doi:10.51276/edu.v6i3.1299

Authors

Martiana Putri Listiowati Universitas Negeri Semarang
Tri Astuti Universitas Negeri Semarang
Ellianawati Ellianawati Universitas Negeri Semarang
Bambang Subali Universitas Negeri Semarang

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51276/edu.v6i3.1299

Keywords:

Computational Thinking , Effectiveness , Elementary School , Learning , Unplugged Coding

Abstract

Effectiveness of learning unplugged coding in improving the computational thinking abilities of elementary school students in 2020–2025. Computational thinking is an essential skill that needs to be instilled from an early age, but limited technological infrastructure in many schools is a challenge in implementing learning. Coding digital-based. For this reason, learning unplugged coding can be an alternative that can be used. This Research uses the method Systematic Literature Review (SLR) with the PRISMA model, analyzing 19 articles consisting of 9 national journals and 10 international journals obtained through the software Publish or Perish. The findings of previous Research show that learning unplugged coding is effective in developing algorithmic thinking skills, logical reasoning, pattern identification, and problem-solving in students. In addition, learning unplugged coding provides an innovative and enjoyable learning experience, thereby motivating students and preparing them to face future technological challenges. The implications of this Research encourage the integration of learning unplugged coding in the elementary school curriculum as an alternative solution, especially for schools with limited technological facilities, to support the development of 21st-century skills.

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Author Biographies

Martiana Putri Listiowati, Universitas Negeri Semarang

Born in Pekalongan regency, 25 Maret 2001. Student at Semarang State University (UNNES). Earned a Bachelor’s degree at Elementary Education (UNIMMA) in Magelang and graduated in 2023, study Teacher Profesional Education (PPG Prajabatan) Elementary Education at (UNNES) and graduated in 2024, and now master’s degree at Primary Education (UNNES).

Tri Astuti, Universitas Negeri Semarang

Earned a master’s degree at Semarang State University (UNNES) and doctor’s degree (UNNES), and currently teaching at UNNES as a postgraduate lecturer with a focus on social studies.

Ellianawati Ellianawati, Universitas Negeri Semarang

Earned a bachelor’s degree at Semarang State University (UNNES), master’s degree at Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), and doctor’s degree at Indonesian Education University and currently teaching at UNNES as a postgraduate lecturer with a focus on natural science education.

Bambang Subali, Universitas Negeri Semarang

Earned a bachelor’s degree at Semarang State University (UNNES), master’s degree UNS, and doctor’s degree at Indonesian Education University and currently teaching at UNNES as a postgraduate lecturer with a focus on natural science education.

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