Using the Matlab-based iRobot create simulator to engage introductory computer programming students in program development and observing computational errors

2011 ◽  
Author(s):  
K.-Y. Daisy Fan ◽  
Kathryn Conway Dimiduk
Keyword(s):  
Program Development ◽  
Computer Programming ◽  
Programming Students ◽  
Computational Errors ◽  
Introductory Computer Programming

Principles of a Casual Serious Game to Support Introductory Programming Learning in Higher Education

2017 ◽  
pp. 53-78
Author(s):  
Adilson Vahldick ◽  
Maria J. Marcelino ◽  
António J. Mendes
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Pilot Study ◽  
Computer Programming ◽  
Fast Learning ◽  
Casual Games ◽  
Game Features ◽  
Interesting Approach ◽  
Programming Skills ◽  
Introductory Classes ◽  
Introductory Computer Programming

Casual games are characterized for their fast learning curve. Casual games tasks usually are short and have increasing difficulty. This seems an interesting approach to learn and practice introductory computer programming concepts for students that face difficulties. Many of serious games intended to support computer programming learning are commercial and aimed at children. Also only a few of those described in the literature are available to teachers. This chapter describes the development of a new game that aims to support introductory computer programming learning and its pilot study with three undergraduate introductory classes. The chapter proposes a set of design principles that might be useful in the development of casual games to support computer programming learning. These principles resulted from the experiment and include game features that were considered important to engage students and to improve some students' computer programming skills.

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