Game design based learning of programming

Abstract

We will present game-based learning and the use of game design as a method for teaching programming in primary and secondary schools in the paper. A lot of knowledge about game-based learning in general was collected in the last decade, but very few information and resources can be found on how to use game design as a method for teaching programming. We have made an extensive study of different approaches to game design-based learning with special emphasis on learning programming for novice programmers. The results will be used as a foundation for the development of methodology in the Erasmus+ international project Coding for Girls. This project addresses open and innovative education and training embedded in the digital era by targeting programming skills that are high in demand in a technology driven society. The project also aims at addressing the gap between male and female participation in computer science education by introducing early methodological learning interventions that make computer programming attractive for girls and boys