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Conference Papers Year : 2016

Measuring an Impact of Block-Based Language in Introductory Programming

Yoshiaki Matsuzawa
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Abstract

The use of block-based visual language in introductory programming is a popular method in education. However, there is little research which provides evidence showing advantages of block-based language. This paper presents the results of learning data analysis with fine grain logs recorded by students’ development environment where the students can select their language in block-based or Java. A total of 400+ students’ logs collected each of four years were analyzed. The results show that migration from Block to Java can be consistently seen each year, although the whole block-editing rate was influenced by the method of the instructor’s introduction. Though block-editing did not affect working time and Lines of Code (LOC), it could reduce the compile error correction time, whereas using Java requires approximately 20% of compile error correction time for students. We concluded that block-based language worked to encourage students to focus high-level algorithm creation, as well as it provides an advantage to understanding text-based language.
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hal-01625380 , version 1 (27-10-2017)

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Yoshiaki Matsuzawa, Yoshiki Tanaka, Sanshiro Sakai. Measuring an Impact of Block-Based Language in Introductory Programming. 1st International Conference on Stakeholders and Information Technology in Education (SAITE), Jul 2016, Guimarães, Portugal. pp.16-25, ⟨10.1007/978-3-319-54687-2_2⟩. ⟨hal-01625380⟩
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