Code It! A Gamified Learning Environment for Iterative Programming

Abstract

Learning computer programming concepts has always been a challenge to most students. An innovative learning environment for teaching iterative programming concepts is presented here. The system includes gamification elements such as point system, leaderboards and achievements. Thirty (30) students were asked to use both non-gamified and gamified learning systems. The level of engagement of the students with the system and improvement on their programming performance were observed. Results show that students are more engaged and have more preference over the gamified version than the non-gamified one. Moreover, 57% of the users have improved programming scores after using both systems. Whether students are able to retain better the programming concepts have not yet been assessed.