ROBOPROG: LEARNING OF FLOWCHARTS THROUGH A GAMIFIED EXPERIENCE

For the novice, learning their first programming language is perceived as a series of challenges. The core skill required is problem-solving, starting with the design of flowcharts. This paper presents RobotProg, a programming instructional tool that uses flowcharts to create a series of robotic act...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inInternational journal of business and management studies Vol. 12; no. 2; p. 612
Main Authors Govender, Reginald G, Govender, Desmond W
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Cankaya-Izmir The Social Sciences Research Society 01.01.2020
Subjects
Curiosity
Human-computer interaction
Learning
Motivation
Problem solving
Semantics
Syntax
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Summary:For the novice, learning their first programming language is perceived as a series of challenges. The core skill required is problem-solving, starting with the design of flowcharts. This paper presents RobotProg, a programming instructional tool that uses flowcharts to create a series of robotic actions through gameplay, creating a learning path through gamification using levels and missions. The aim is to provide a reflective overview of the gamified flowchart-learning tool, RobotProg, as a form of instruction. RobotProg flowcharts are executed by the built-in interpreter, which displays the movement of the robot on the computer screen. The tool offers pre-exposure to programming concepts prior to language-specific syntax and semantics, providing a seamless transition from simple logic of flowcharts to more complex programming languages in text-based environments later on. The contemplation of RobotProg through the lens of Fogg's Behavioural Model effectively addresses the factors of motivation, ability and trigger all at the same time. This results in a programmer who is an advanced beginner and efficient problem solver. RobotProg indirectly through human-computer interaction, develops an individual's algorithmic thinking while being mentally stimulating, building interest and curiosity.
ISSN:1309-8047