Play to Learn: Improving Middle School Students’ Computational Thinking Through Game-Based Learning (Poster 24)

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Wednesday 12:40 p.m.
  In Poster Session: STEM and Digital Tools in Education

Abstract

Game-based learning shows great potential as a tool for enhancing students’ computational thinking abilities. However, these approaches in K-12 settings frequently emphasize the teaching of specific computing concepts and programming skills. This approach often overlooks the broader goal of developing students’ computational thinking competency—a set of skills that can be applied across various subjects and aligns with curriculum standards. To address this need, the current study investigated how game-based learning influenced middle school students’ learning performance. One hundred sixty-nine students participated in the study, playing the game over a period of 4 weeks. We observed evidence that the gaming experience significantly influenced the development of computational thinking competency, self-efficacy toward computational thinking, and interest in STEM career after gameplay.

Authors

• Yanjun Pan, Southern Methodist University

• Ching-Yu Tseng, Southern Methodist University

• Lawrence J. Klinkert, Southern Methodist University

• Leanne R. Ketterlin-Geller, Southern Methodist University

• Eric C. Larson, Southern Methodist University

• Corey Clark, Southern Methodist University