The Associations Between Computational Thinking and Creativity: The Role of Personal Characteristics

TLDR

Computational thinking and creativity are regarded as essential 21st‑century skills that should be integrated into global curricula. The study examined how computational thinking relates to creativity while considering learners’ personal characteristics. Researchers assessed creative thinking and computational creativity in 174 Spanish middle‑school students using the Torrance Test of Creative Thinking and activity logs from the game‑based CT platform Kodetu. Results revealed positive links between computational thinking and both creativity constructs, a strong relationship between the two creativity measures, and gender, school affiliation, prior coding experience, and technology affinity differences, with girls scoring higher on both creativity tests.

Abstract

Computational Thinking (CT) and creativity are considered two vital skills for the 21st century that should be incorporated into future curricula around the world. We studied the relationship between these two constructs while focusing on learners’ personal characteristics. Two types of creativity were examined: creative thinking and computational creativity. The research was conducted among 174 middle school students from Spain. Data collected using a standardized creativity test (Torrance's TTCT) were triangulated with data drawn from students' log files that documented their activity in a game-based learning environment for CT (Kodetu). We found some interesting associations between CT and the two constructs of creativity. These associations shed light on positive associations between each of the two creativity constructs and CT acquisition, as well as between the two creativity constructs themselves. Additionally, we highlight differences between boys and girls, as girls were found to be more creative on both creativity measures. Other differences associated with school affiliation, prior coding knowledge, and technology affinity are also discussed.