CTMath: enhancing elementary mathematics and computational thinking skills through a structured scratch-based model

CTMath is a five-phase learning model that integrates computational thinking (CT) into elementary mathematics through Scratch. Developed using ADDIE, the model was expert-validated and then examined in a limited pilot, a field trial, and a quasi-experimental comparison with a control class. Mathematics achievement showed moderate improvement based on normalized gain ( N -gain) (pilot = 0.375; field = 0.587; quasi-experimental CTMath = 0.487 vs. control = 0.224), and the CTMath class outperformed the control class at post-test in the quasi-experimental stage, t (41) = 3.247, p = .002, mean difference = 2.89/20, Hedges’ g = 0.97. In addition to cognitive outcomes, students’ Scratch projects and classroom observations suggested strengthening in CT practices such as decomposition, algorithm design, and debugging, alongside critical-thinking-related classroom performance. The main contributions of CTMath are: (i) a replicable instructional syntax (Problem Initialization → Solution Design → Implementation → Evaluation → Refinement and Support), (ii) an implementation package consisting of student worksheets (LKPD), a teacher guide, and Scratch projects, and (iii) a multidimensional assessment framework that captures process, digital product, and learning outcomes. Overall, these findings suggest that structured and gradual CT integration may support stronger mathematical understanding and CT-related classroom performance under the conditions of this study and warrant further replication across other topics and contexts.