Graduate Research Papers
Availability
Open Access Graduate Research Paper
Keywords
Computer programming--Study and teaching (Middle school);
Abstract
The purpose of this project was to develop a coding unit for students in grades 5-8 as an introductory programming course using the programming language SNAP! with a Finch robotics platform. The robotics platform provides a means of student engagement that allows them to complete computer programming challenges that drive interest and motivation. A series of five major learning activities were created as part of a middle school technology exploratory course. The beta testers included the four course instructors and around 30 of middle school student volunteers.
The designed unit was implemented once as a pilot, and was being implemented for the second time after making some modifications. The preliminary findings show that students enjoyed learning about basic programming concepts, or coding, and would be interested in pursuing similar types of projects and teachers had a positive experience. This model could be expanded to a full-term course as more modules are completed.
Year of Submission
2016
Degree Name
Master of Arts
Department
Department of Curriculum and Instruction
First Advisor
Ping Gao
Date Original
2016
Object Description
1 PDF file (41 pages)
Copyright
©2016 William V. Gruman
Language
en
File Format
application/pdf
Recommended Citation
Gruman, William V., "A unit design : learning to code with Finches" (2016). Graduate Research Papers. 679.
https://scholarworks.uni.edu/grp/679
Comments
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