Anchor code: Modularity as evidence for conceptual learning and computational practices of students using a code-first environment

Aditi Wagh, Sharona Levy, Michael Horn, Yu Guo, Corey Brady, Uri Wilensky

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

In response to increasing calls to include computational thinking (CT) in K-12 education, some researchers have argued for integrating science learning and CT. In that vein, this paper investigates conceptual learning and computational practices through the use of a code-first modeling environment called Frog Pond in a middle school classroom. The environment was designed to enable learners to explore models of evolutionary shifts through domain-specific agent-based visual programming. It was implemented as a curricular unit in seventh grade science class. We analyzed video and log data of two contrasting student pairs. This paper presents one of our findings: Development of modular core functional code-units or what we call anchor code. Anchor code is a body of code that creates a stable base from which further explorations take place. We argue that anchor code is evidence for conceptual learning and computational practices.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationMaking a Difference
Subtitle of host publicationPrioritizing Equity and Access in CSCL - 12th International Conference on Computer Supported Collaborative Learning, CSCL 2017 - Conference Proceedings
EditorsBrian K. Smith, Marcela Borge, Emma Mercier, Kyu Yon Lim
PublisherInternational Society of the Learning Sciences (ISLS)
Pages656-659
Number of pages4
ISBN (Electronic)9780990355021
StatePublished - 2017
Event12th International Conference on Computer Supported Collaborative Learning - Making a Difference: Prioritizing Equity and Access in CSCL, CSCL 2017 - Philadelphia, United States
Duration: 18 Jun 201722 Jun 2017

Publication series

NameComputer-Supported Collaborative Learning Conference, CSCL
Volume2
ISSN (Print)1573-4552

Conference

Conference12th International Conference on Computer Supported Collaborative Learning - Making a Difference: Prioritizing Equity and Access in CSCL, CSCL 2017
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityPhiladelphia
Period18/06/1722/06/17

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© ISLS.

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Human-Computer Interaction
  • Education

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