Mental Models, Career Aspirations, and the Acquirement of Basic Concepts of Computer Science in Elementary Education: Empirical Evaluation of the Computer Science Experimenter's Kit

Abstract

We present an empirical evaluation of a Computer Science Experimenter's Kit. The kit offers hands-on material for basic concepts of computer science accompanied by illstrations of the occupational profile of computer scientists. Overall, 25 preschool children participated in the study. Data collection was realized with qualitative methods suitable for young children. Results show that the material offered by CSKit allows preschool children -- girls and boys alike -- to acquire elementary computational concepts and to expand their mental model of computer science as a profession. However, this knowledge gain did not result in a significant increase of interest in computer science as a content topic and as a profession.