Browsing by Author "Wong, Nelson K. Y."

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    Towards Block-Based Programming Tools in Mixed Reality
    (2020-05-12) Upadhyay, Tarishi; Maurer, Frank; Oehlberg, Lora A.; Wong, Nelson K. Y.
    Block-based programming languages have been used successfully to assist in overcoming the initial challenges for cultivating computational thinking for novices and non-programmers. Block-programming environments support project based learning that includes building and deploying program with the physical hardware to build creativity, computational thinking, and collaboration skills. However, traditional 2D block-based programming environments are often restrictive when it comes to practical and interactive learning, i.e. building projects and validating programs experimentally. This research focuses on enhancing the learning experience for novices using virtual 3D objects and mobile-based Mixed Reality. It aims to develop a new approach for learning block-based programming concepts, which offers real-time interaction with virtual 3D objects for practical implementation of programs and improved learning performance for novices. We designed and implemented a prototype that combines block-based programming with mobile MR. The prototype was designed in collaboration with teachers from STEM Learning Lab, who provided pragmatic insights on current practices and challenges with block-based programming. We evaluated the prototype using a comparative study with non-programmers and gathered feedback from teachers. The results indicate that the prototype and approach have the potential to improve the interactive experience and the learning performance of novices and non-programmers.