Unlocking the Code: Exploring Predictors of Future Interest in Learning Computer Programming Among Primary School Boys and Girls

Abstract

The integration of programming into primary and secondary education has gained substantial attention globally, particularly in recent years. Despite efforts to showcase its benefits, there remains a gap in understanding whether students embrace programming and intend to persist in learning it. This study investigates the factors influencing the intention of primary school students to learn programming. It explores eight variables like perceived enjoyment, utility, ease of learning, social influence, creative and programming self-efficacy, and collaboration attitude, hypothesized to positively affect students’ behavioral intention to learn programming. Demographic factors such as age and gender were also considered. Data from 235 Serbian primary school students were collected via self-report questionnaires. Structural equation modeling revealed that the proposed model significantly explained students’ behavioral intention, accounting for 65.9% of the variance. Social influence and perceived enjoyment emerged as the most influential factors. The study discusses teaching implications for programming.

Keywords:

• Intention to learn programming
• primary school students
• technology acceptance
• gender
• age

Data availability statement

The datasets generated during and/or analysed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.

Acknowledgements

During the preparation of this work the author(s) used Chat GPT in order to improve language and readability of the paper. After using this tool/service, the author(s) reviewed and edited the content as needed and take(s) full responsibility for the content of the publication.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Verica Milutinović

Verica Milutinović is an Associate Professor at the University of Kragujevac, Faculty of Education in Jagodina, Serbia. She specializes in ICT integration in education, technology acceptance, attitudes toward technology in teaching, and teaching programming. Her research interests include technology-enhanced learning, e-learning, emerging technologies, and pedagogical strategies for improved student performance.