ctGameStudio – A Game-Based Learning Environment to Foster Computational Thinking

Abstract

This paper presents a game-based learning environment supporting the acquisition of computational thinking skills. The game environment offers two types of usage: a guided progression through levels and an open stage. Seven levels of guided learning were evaluated in a study with 40 students to measure their learning progress. We introduce five features to describe the students’ learning behavior and map the performance parameters to computational thinking competences. In our analysis, we distinguish different basic actions and compare the usage and distribution of these actions over time and between groups of learners with different achievement levels. This allows for identifying specific challenges related the interactive acquisition of CT skills.