Science Representations in Block-Based Programming Languages

Science Representations in Block-Based Programming Languages

OVERVIEW

Previous visual programming languages for children use various methods to bridge understanding between the hardware components of activities and the software. However, when we use visual programming languages and making activities in the context of a science lesson, there’s a new component to students’ understanding that needs to be considered. In this study, we’re implementing the participatory design process with elementary school students in order to understand how we should represent science concepts in block-based programming languages that aim to teach science as part of making activities.

 

PROJECT TEAM MEMBERS

ALUMNI

  • Sarah Brown (Ph.D. Student, Computer Information Science & Engineering)
  • Amar Suchak (Undergraduate student, Computer Information Science & Engineering)
  • Anna Villena (Undergraduate Student, University of Florida)
  • Lauren Ellis (Undergraduate Student, University of Florida)
  • Pengfei Yin (Master’s Student, University of Florida)

RELATED PUBLICATIONS

  • Brown, S., A., Chu, S. L., and Yin, P. (2021). A Survey of Interface Representations in Visual Programming Language Environments for Children’s Physical Computing Kits. In Proceedings of International Conference on Interaction Design & Children (IDC ’21). Virtual.