Beginners’ programming attempts to accomplish a multiple-solution based task within a multiple representational computer environment
Maria Kordaki · EdMedia: World Conference on Educational Media and Technology · 2009
This study considers the role of a drawing multiple-representation based computer environment (named L.E.C.G.O: a Learning Environment for programming and C using Geometrical Objects) in beginners’ programming attempts to accomplish a multiple-solution based task demanding the use of algorithmic structures, graphic functions and arrays. In fact, nine 18-year old students participated in a comparative learning experiment where they were asked to face similar multiple-solution based tasks in three learning contexts: paper and pencil (p-p), Turbo C and L.E.C.G.O. The analysis of the data shows that all students successfully faced the task at hand within L.E.C.G.O., at the same time using various algorithmic structures and graphic functions. However, fewer students effectively performed within p-p and Turbo C. On the whole, students were given support to effectively perform the said task within L.E.C.G.O. by the opportunities provided to form intuitive graphical solutions and gradually move on through multiple representation systems to form formal solutions in C. Students were also given support by the multiple aids provided by L.E.C.G.O. to emphasize the algorithmic solution to the task at hand, at the same time avoiding the cognitive load stemming from the memorization of the syntax of the programming language C.