Coding skills matter in young learners’ creativity and interest in programming

Abstract Coding has become a fundamental skill for young learners to cultivate computational thinking in engaging ways. The goal of this research is to examine the importance of coding skills for children who are completely fresh in computational thinking. The research sample covers fifth-grade students with zero programming experience at computer science pilot schools in central and western Mongolia. The paper outlines the results of the pilot study on Computer science introduction, as a separate subject, with arguments from participants. The research study aims to diagnose the correlation between programming skills and further interest through creative graphic coding environments in Code.org intervention. The 16-week Computer Science pilot included block coding activities on 193 students in 5th grade. The comparative analysis of the pilot group and the control group demonstrated that coding activities can effectively improve the students' programming skills and creativity as well as revealed potential coding interest irrespective of gender related stereotypes.