What Attracts Children to Computer Science?

Abstract

Significant effort is being committed internationally to promote computer science (CS) learning in K12 classrooms. Career & Technical Education and Design & Technology courses are two of the most common targets for increased CS instruction. “Hour of Code” (HoC) is one example of the tasks technology teachers are asked to implement, devoting one hour annually to complete pre-developed CS activities with their students. Researchers collected data from students before and after engaging with an HoC activity and investigated students’ motivation, or lack thereof, around coding.  Specifically, all students were asked why they would or would not like to learn more about coding following their participation in the HoC activity. Several key findings emerged from the analysis of the student comments. These findings, as well as practical classroom implications, will be shared with an emphasis on trends in student’s preconceptions and future interest in CS. Additionally, our examination of students’ interest in coding as it relates “to “fun” and “job prospects” will be explored, as well as students' associated concerns. The role of K12 education as it relates to career preparation is one that can provide greater insight for all technology teachers as they approach CS but also subjects like engineering and design. These trends are aligned with the integration and implementation of the HoC activities in classrooms. Thus, this research has practical significance and can inform future efforts aimed at increasing student interest.