Problem solving by 5–6 years old kindergarten children in a computer programming environment: A case study

Computer programming is considered an important competence for the development of higher-order thinking in addition to algorithmic problem solving skills. Its horizontal integration throughout all educational levels is considered worthwhile and attracts the attention of researchers. Towards this dir...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Computers and education Vol. 63; pp. 87 - 97
Main Authors: Fessakis, G., Gouli, E., Mavroudi, E.
Format: Journal Article
Language:English
Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.04.2013
Elsevier
Subjects:
Bulletin Boards
Computers
Educational Environment
Educational Equipment
Educational Technology
Improving classroom teaching
Interactive Video
Intervention
Interviews
Kindergarten
Learning Activities
Mathematical Concepts
Preschool Teachers
Problem Solving
Programming
Programming and programming languages
Teacher Role
Teaching Methods
Teaching/learning strategies
Video Technology
Visual Aids
Young Children
Kindergarten
Teaching/learning strategies
Programming and programming languages
Improving classroom teaching
ISSN:0360-1315, 1873-782X
Online Access:Get full text
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Summary:Computer programming is considered an important competence for the development of higher-order thinking in addition to algorithmic problem solving skills. Its horizontal integration throughout all educational levels is considered worthwhile and attracts the attention of researchers. Towards this direction, an exploratory case study is presented concerning dimensions of problem solving using computer programming by 5–6 years old kindergarten children. After a short introductory experiential game the children were involved in solving a series of analogous computer programming problems, using a Logo-based environment on an Interactive White Board. The intervention was designed as a part of the structured learning activities of the kindergarten which are teacher-guided and are conducted in a whole-class social mode. The observation of the video recording of the intervention along with the analysis of teacher's interview and the researcher's notes allow for a realistic evaluation of the feasibility, the appropriateness and the learning value of integrating computer programming in such a context. The research evidence supports the view that children enjoyed the engaging learning activities and had opportunities to develop mathematical concepts, problem solving and social skills. Interesting results about children learning, difficulties, interactions, problem solving strategies and the teacher's role are reported. The study also provides proposals for the design of future research. ► Children get familiar to programming software after demonstration and a game. ► Learning activities and programming software used are attractive/engaging. ► The proposed activities reinforce mathematical and problem solving skills. ► Children were introduced to basic computer programming concepts. ► The teacher's role during the proposed learning activities was critical.
ISSN:0360-1315
1873-782X
DOI:10.1016/j.compedu.2012.11.016