The Effect of Learning Programming on Logical Reasoning

This paper is devoted to the study of the effect of learning programming on logical deductive reasoning. In the course of the work, an analysis of the literature on the research topic was carried out and various theories related to logical reasoning, in particular, the theory of mental models and belief bias, were considered. Based on theoretical assumptions, task for evaluating logical reasoning and measuring the susceptibility of groups of students to the belief bias were developed. The sample of research consisted of three groups of students 7-11 grades with different levels of programming training. A total of 293 students took part in the study. The study showed no effect of learning programming on logical reasoning. Moreover, factor structure of tasks was studied, with the use of confirmatory factor analysis. Two factors of logical thinking were identified: the search for the only correct mental model and all possible mental models. Key words: deductive logical reasoning, programming, belief bias, mental models, factor structure of logical reasoning.