Reis, A.Pinto, MaribelDorotea, N.Mejia - Tejada, R.Puentes - Puente, A.Marrero - Sera, E.Cruz - Pichardo, I.Manzur – Herrá , K.2026-01-142026-01-142025-11-21Reis, A., Santos Miranda-Pinto, M., & Dorotea, N. (2025). DEVELOPMENT OF COMPUTATIONAL THINKING SKILLS TO IMPROVE THE LEARNING OF PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES IN VOCATIONAL EDUCATION. In R. , Mejia - Tejada, A. , Puentes - Puente, E. , Marrero - Sera, I. , Cruz - Pichardo, & K. Manzur – Herrá (Eds.), Innovación Educativa en la era de la IA: Repensando la Universidad. Libro de Actas EDUTEC 2025 (pp. 356–358). Pontificia Universidad Católica Madre y Maestra. https://isbn.bnphu.gob.do/catalogo.php?mode=detalle&nt=397479789945657043http://hdl.handle.net/10400.2/20848The study analyzes the development of computational thinking in students of the 1st year of the Professional Technical Course of Informatics-Systems, exploring the potential of digital platforms Code.org and Tinkercad. These tools, based on block programming and text, prove to be effective in promoting the gradual learning of programming languages, while encouraging autonomy, creativity and problem-solving. The research adopts the qualitative Design-Based Research (DBR) methodology, which combines flexibility and scientific rigor, allowing the integration of theory and practice in collaboration with students. Data collection includes interviews, observations and practical use of the platforms, which are later analyzed in the MAXQDA 24 software. The focus is on identifying factors that influence the quality of learning in VET education. In summary, it is concluded that the integration between computational thinking, programming languages and digital platforms represents an innovative pedagogical approach, aligned with the technical and socio-emotional skills required in the twenty-first century.engComputational thinkingProgramming languagesProfessional educationSkills development and creative learningconference paper