Cognitive Effects of Computer Programming

Furthermore, thinking skills acquired while learning to program can be applied to other non-programming problem situations. Hence, computer programming can indeed be used as a cognitive tool.

Computer Programming is a complex task. It involves many aspects of problem solving, such as problem decomposition, selecting appropriate information, assigning variables, identifying plausible solutions, applying programming structures, debugging code, and so on. Basically, learning to program requires five skills: general strategy, planning, logical thinking, variables, and debugging.

These skills are complex and thus require different forms of intelligence. However, analogical reasoning ability is strongly related to the ability to write sub procedures. Computer programming is equally dependent on various cognitive controls and styles of learners. Students who are field-independent students are more analytical thinkers. Consequently, field-independence, logical reasoning, and direction-following skills are highly correlated with programming skills.

Students learning computer programming often experience some developmental differences. Typically, students in higher grades are more proficient than those in lower grades, and are able to use variables because of their level of abstraction, the dynamic nature of values, and level of reasoning. Computer programming requires logical reasoning and thus enhances competence in other fields of human endeavor. As a consequence, students who learn to program actually perform better in various cognitive tests than those who do not.

Learning to program entails that learners think in an organized, systematic way about the problems they are attempting to solve. Furthermore, thinking skills acquired while learning to program can be applied to other non-programming problem situations. Hence, computer programming can indeed be used as a cognitive tool.