Russian Federation
In the modern digital world, the development of spatial and computational thinking is becoming a key aspect of education. The article is devoted to the study of the influence of creating 3D objects using visual block programming languages (such as Tinkercad Blocks, Blockly or Scratch) on the formation of these skills. In this aspect, the article considers: the relationship between visual programming and the development of spatial thinking; the role of block codes in the formation of computational thinking (algorithmization, decomposition, abstraction); practical aspects of using 3D modeling for educational purposes. Modern education actively integrates digital technologies, paying special attention to the development of skills in demand in STEM disciplines. In this context, the article examines how the process of creating 3D models through visual block programming (for example, in the Tinkercad Blocks, Blockly or Scratch environments) affects the formation of spatial and computational thinking in schoolchildren and students. Spatial thinking is defined as the ability of a student to mentally represent, transform and analyze objects in three-dimensional space (these abilities play a key role in engineering, architecture, design and programming). Similarly, computational thinking includes algorithmization, problem decomposition, pattern recognition and abstract thinking, which is the basis for studying computer science and related disciplines. In this aspect, the study examines: 1. Mechanisms of the influence of block programming on cognitive skills: how working with 3D objects in a visual environment develops an understanding of geometry, projections and scaling; the role of algorithmic structures (loops, conditions, functions) in structuring spatial thinking. 2. Practical educational methods: examples of tasks combining 3D modeling and programming; analysis of the difficulties faced by students and ways to overcome them. 3. Comparison with traditional approaches: advantages of block languages over text programming at the initial stages of training; efficiency of 3D modeling compared to 2D analogs. The study can be useful for teachers, methodologists and developers of educational programs aimed at developing STEM skills in students.
somputational thinking, spatial thinking, block coding, TinkerCAD, 3D design
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