Improving Middle School Students' Computer Science Knowledge and Engagement Through Creative Online Programming Projects

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 31
  In Roundtable Session: Developing Computer Science and Engineering Knowledge and Cognitive Skills in K–12 Contexts

Abstract

Vidcode is an online platform that aims to engage students in computer science through the creation of open-ended programming projects. Researchers used a mixed methods study to explore the potential impact of Vidcode on students’ knowledge of coding concepts and engagement and interest in coding. Four middle school classrooms used Vidcode lessons to introduce students to foundational concepts in programming, such as sequencing, variables, and loops. Data gathered from pre-post student content assessments, pre-post student surveys, and teacher post-interviews suggest that use of the intervention shows promise in increasing students’ knowledge of specific coding concepts and increasing student confidence in coding abilities equally across girls and boys.

Authors

• Rosanne Luu, University of Wisconsin - Madison

• Elli Suzuki, WestEd

• Jessica Triant, WestEd

• Michelle Tiu, WestEd