학술논문

Promoting Computer Science Learning with Block-Based Programming and Narrative-Centered Gameplay
Document Type
Conference
Source
2020 IEEE Conference on Games (CoG) Games (CoG), 2020 IEEE Conference on. :654-657 Aug, 2020
Subject
Computing and Processing
General Topics for Engineers
Games
Programming profession
Education
Task analysis
Problem-solving
Adaptation models
Syntactics
Game-based learning
Computer science education
Computational thinking
Block-based programming
Language
ISSN
2325-4289
Abstract
Recent years have seen increasing awareness of the need for all students in primary and secondary education to learn computer science (CS) concepts and skills. Educational games hold significant potential to serve as a platform for CS education because they integrate engaging problem solving with effective pedagogical strategies. This potential is especially high for narrative-centered educational games that embed learning activities within rich interactive stories. In this paper, we present an educational game featuring block-based programming challenges contextualized within an engaging narrative, designed to promote CS learning for middle school students (ages 11 to 13). In the game, students undertake problem-solving challenges that are aligned with the K-12 Computer Science Framework. Results from a classroom implementation of the game with middle grade students suggest that their perceived game control ratings are positively correlated with their progress in the game, which suggests the need for adaptively supporting students' game-based learning activities. Building on these findings, we discuss design implications for creating student-adaptive CS learning experiences in educational games that incorporate block-based programming enriched narrative-centered gameplay.