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From Virtual to Physical Problem Solving in Coding: A Comparison on Various Multi-Modal Coding Tools for Children Using the Framework of Problem Solving

Research output: Chapters, Conference Papers, Creative and Literary WorksRGC 12 - Chapter in an edited book (Author)peer-review

Abstract

Using coding education to promote computational thinking and nurture problem-solving skills in children has become an emerging global trend. However, how different input and output modalities in coding tools affect coding as a problem-solving process remains unclear. Of interest are the advantages and disadvantages of graphical and tangible interfaces for teaching coding to children. We conducted four kids coding workshops to study how different input and output methods in coding affected the problem-solving process and class dynamics. Results revealed that graphical input could keep children focused on problem solving better than tangible input, but it was less provocative for class discussion. Tangible output supported better schema construction and casual reasoning and promoted more active class engagement than graphical output but offered less affordance for analogical comparison among problems. We also derived insights for designing new tools and teaching methods for kids coding.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationTeaching Computational Thinking in Primary Education
EditorsHuseyin Ozcinar, Gary Wong, H. Tugba Ozturk
PublisherIGI Global Publishing
Pages138-155
ISBN (Electronic)9781522532019
ISBN (Print)9781522532002, 1522532005
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2018

Publication series

NameAdvances in Early Childhood and K-12 Education (AECKE) Book Series
ISSN (Print)2329-5929
ISSN (Electronic)2329-5937

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