CMX: Implementing an MMORPG for Learning Programming (original) (raw)
Related papers
The initial stage of the learning programming process is an arduous task. Novice students have to simultaneously learn the syntax of a programming language, understand the algorithmic logic that each program is based on as well as comprehend the basic concepts of the programming principles. The problems students are faced with become even greater when teachers employ complex environments with minimum graphical facilities instead of user-friendly educational programming environments. At the same time, constant technological developments indicate that the global market will continue to require highly skilled computer programmers; thus, the usage of advanced educational environments to properly train future professionals is essential. This is one of the reasons why a new type of technology called Serious Games has started raising great interest in educational settings. Using serious games in education combines increased motivation of students with the incorporation of course materials ...
Computer programming is a core subject in most Computer science programmes at university level but many students have difficulties with both the understanding of theoretical concepts and with the learning of practical programming skills. Several studies have pointed out that there exist pedagogical and motivational problems resulting in high drop-out rates and low learning outcomes. On the other hand today’s students have grown up in a digital and internet connected world where playing computer games is a common and appreciated spare time activity. It has been discussed during many years amongst teachers and researchers which important features a programming language should have to support learning and which the appropriate programming paradigms are for introductory programming courses. Less has been discussed and written about modifying the actual course content and use the recognised attraction and catalytic effect of computer games. The aim of this case study is to describe, anal...
Learning programming with serious games
EAI Endorsed Transactions on Game-Based Learning 13(1), 2013
Students who are learning to program often have difficulties understanding cognitively complex concepts. Teaching programming is mainly focused on the syntax and features of programs, rather than to a deeper understanding of programming constructs and abstract concepts. Computer game stimulates active learning and presentation of learning content in a variety of contexts that are funny and engaging for students. This has a positive impact on the motivation to learn. This paper deals mainly with defining the programming knowledge and common problems with teaching programming, comparing the properties of novice and experts programmers and introducing the semantic method of teaching programming where one would teach only the semantics of programming constructs unbound to specific programming language in an interactive motivating setting of educational computer game. In this paper we discuss the main characteristics of computer games and specific features which makes them useful in the educational setting. As an example of presented method we introduce a game on the presentation of variables in programming. The game is based on visualizations of different types of variables and on the interpretation of the assignment sentence. The game actively encourages interactivity and deeper learning.