A cross-platform game for learning computational thinking with the support of collaborative learning
by Lap-Kei Lee; Tsz-Kin Cheung; Lok-Tin Ho; Wai-Hang Yiu; Nga-In Wu
International Journal of Innovation and Learning (IJIL), Vol. 30, No. 3, 2021

Abstract: Computational thinking (CT) has gained increasing attention from education researchers, practitioners, and parents in the past decade, as CT is a fundamental skill for everyone to solve problems effectively and efficiently with solutions that are reusable in different contexts. This paper presents a cross-platform game for learning CT anywhere and anytime using a computer or smartphone with or without internet connection. The game provides an easy-to-use visual programming environment for learners to instruct virtual 3D robot(s) to complete specific tasks. Our game levels are designed to cover these CT core elements: reformulation, recursion, decomposition, abstraction, and systematic testing. The game also supports collaborative learning for multiple learners, where learners find suitable solutions together. This helps to develop their communication and leadership skills. Two surveys were performed to confirm the successful integration of the five CT core elements in its game design, and its attractiveness and usefulness as a CT learning tool.

Online publication date: Fri, 15-Oct-2021

The full text of this article is only available to individual subscribers or to users at subscribing institutions.

 
Existing subscribers:
Go to Inderscience Online Journals to access the Full Text of this article.

Pay per view:
If you are not a subscriber and you just want to read the full contents of this article, buy online access here.

Complimentary Subscribers, Editors or Members of the Editorial Board of the International Journal of Innovation and Learning (IJIL):
Login with your Inderscience username and password:

Username:        Password:          Forgotten your password?

Want to subscribe?
A subscription gives you complete access to all articles in the current issue, as well as to all articles in the previous three years (where applicable). See our Orders page to subscribe.

If you still need assistance, please email subs@inderscience.com