Slovenian primary school students without mandatory computer science in the digital age
Algebra University/Digital First
Date of publication:
Slovenian primary school students achieve below-average results in creative thinking compared to their peers from other countries. Although their achievements in mathematics and science are above average, a noticeable gap exists in reading literacy. Girls perform as well as boys in mathematics, slightly better in science, and significantly better in reading.
Differences in achievement due to socio-economic factors are concerning. In creative thinking, Slovenian girls outperformed boys, indicating potential for enhancing their interest and success in STEM fields—mathematics, information technology, natural sciences, and technology.
Experts believe that the Slovenian education system focuses too much on grades instead of fostering creativity. An analysis of PISA 2022 results shows that regular participation in extracurricular activities, such as creative writing, theater, and programming, supports the development of creative thinking.
Since the Slovenian primary school curriculum lacks a mandatory computer science subject, systematic assessment of digital skills, and the development of computational thinking, the Faculty of Education in Ljubljana has initiated the Digital First project. Its primary goal, in collaboration with partners from ten EU countries, is to improve computer science teaching and computational thinking in schools by introducing a new functional approach to teaching computer science. The functional approach emphasizes the application of computational concepts and skills to solve practical problems and communicate in the digital world. This method promotes a deeper understanding and use of computational knowledge in everyday life and various professional contexts. It also aims to make computer science more accessible to those who have grown up in today’s information society. To ensure young people are prepared for the challenges of the digital age, education systems must keep pace with technological advancements.
Authors: Špela Cerar, Anja Mejač, Irena Nančovska Šerbec
