Exploring the Role of Computational Thinking in Enhancing Problem-Solving and Creative Thinking: A Bibliometric and Systematic Literature Review
Asep Irvan Irvani (a,b), Lilik Hasanah (c*), Muhammad Reyza Arief Taqwa (d), Resti Warliani (a,b)

a) Science Education Program, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia
Jl. Dr. Setiabudhi No. 229, Bandung, 40154
b) Physics Education Department, Universitas Garut
Jl. Raya Samarang No. 52A Tarogong Kaler, Garut, 44151
c) Physics Department, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia
Jl. Dr. Setiabudhi No. 229, Bandung, 40154
d) Physics Education Department, Universitas Negeri Malang
Jl. Cakrawala No.5, Sumbersari, Kec. Lowokwaru, Kota Malang, 65145

*lilikhasanah[at]upi.edu

Abstract

This study explores the role of Computational Thinking (CT) in enhancing problem-solving and creative thinking skills, with a specific focus on physics education. As technology advances and the demand for 21st-century skills increases, these abilities have become crucial in modern education. Through bibliometric analysis and a systematic literature review (SLR), this research aims to identify the impact of CT on cognitive skill development across various disciplines. Based on data from 1098 articles published between 2015 and 2025, exclusively retrieved from the Scopus database, the study analyzes research trends, citations, authors, and relevant topics in the fields of CT, problem-solving, and creative thinking. The analysis reveals that CT significantly aids in solving complex problems with a more structured approach and promotes creative thinking in addressing existing challenges. To further explore its role in education, the study narrows down the analysis to 10 articles specifically focused on physics & astronomy. These 10 articles highlight how CT is applied in enhancing problem-solving and creative thinking in physics classrooms. The findings provide insights for educators, policymakers, and researchers to integrate CT into educational curricula, particularly in physics, to support the development of cognitive skills relevant to professional fields. The study suggests the importance of collaboration between the education sector and industry to maximize the potential of CT in shaping a generation capable of critical and creative thinking.

Keywords: Bibliometric Analysis- Computational Thinking- Creative Thinking- Problem-solving- Systematic Literature Review-

Topic: Physics Education