Year: 2025
Type: conference-paper
Abstract: Computer science education continues to be a factor in the leaky pipeline for students in STEM.To support the development of computational thinking (CT) skills and self-efficacy (SE) in computer science, we introduce BarrelBots, a puzzle-based block coding activity in Minecraft designed for middle school participants.We conducted an initial investigation on the context of a summer camp where participants (n = 15) solved researcher-designed puzzles that incorporated basic coding skills including sequencing, loops, conditionals, and functions.They also had the opportunity to design their own puzzles and share them with a partner and the class.In this paper, we investigate to what extent the BarrelBots activity promoted CT and SE development.In addition, we analyzed log data to examine correlations between in-game behaviors and participant post-test scores.We found that there was a significant improvement in STEM SE and some large significant correlations between the individual problem-solving log data behaviors and the CT post-test scores.
Source: Proceedings.
Language: English
Subfield: Computer Science Applications
Field: Computer Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: bronze
Awards: AI Institute for Innovative Intelligent Technologies for Education (INVITE), Fostering Interest in Science through Interactive Exploration of Astronomy What-If Simulations, Fostering Enduring Interest in STEM through Exoplanet Education and Interactive Exploration and Creation of Potentially Habitable Worlds, G5942125552, G7415757502
OpenAlex ID: W4411270189