We started making this game in order to present the subject of
functions and procedures in an interesting and fun way to pupils, who are
learning to program and develop their algorithmic thinking. Adding humor and
motivational elements to the game, we tried to achieve that pupils will enjoy
playing the game, and with that gain knowledge about creating algorithms.
The topic is quite difficult, that is why we decided to include a lot of interesting
activities, which we present in an appealing storyline, to ensure the transfer of
knowledge. The game was developed during the subject With information and
communications technology supported learning materials on the Faculty of education in Ljubljana, department of Mathemathics and Computer science,
as a group project. The article describes how we made the game, the script,
included activities and learning goals, which we want to teach with this game.
The final product is an example, how to create a didactically appropriate,
theoretically based game, which hides the learning goals in the games context
and allows pupils, while playing the game, unknowingly learn important concepts
about programming. The game still has to undergo beta testing, and also needs
to be tested in primary schools. After the testings are done, we will, based on the
results, improve the game, where improvements are needed.
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