How High is the Ceiling? Applying Core Concepts of Block-based Languages to Extend Programming Environments

Jatzlau S, Romeike R (2018)


Publication Language: English

Publication Type: Conference contribution, Conference Contribution

Publication year: 2018

Pages Range: 286-294

Conference Proceedings Title: Constructionism 2018: Constructionism, Computational Thinking and Educational Innovation: conference proceedings

Event location: Vilnius LT

ISBN: 978-609-95760-1-5

URI: http://www.constructionism2018.fsf.vu.lt/file/repository/Proceedings_Constr2018.pdf

Abstract

Since the emergence of block-based visual programming languages, they have been developed and improved to become increasingly accessible, intuitive, and easy to use. Over the course of this evolution, both uncommon and entirely new language concepts have been introduced, such as the cloning of objects, or the nesting of sprites. This paper provides a selection of core concepts and describes a categorization model. It is proposed that the concepts found in block-based languages are the reason they lend themselves to constructionist learning approaches. To illustrate this point, the fundamental computer science concept of image nesting will be selected, its background and origin explained, and its incarnation in current block-based languages outlined. Following this, the constructionist task of modifying a programming environment will be implemented. Using the aforementioned concept proves that even high-level solutions according to the “high ceiling”-principle can be implemented using the basic concepts of block-based languages

Related research project(s)

How to cite

APA:

Jatzlau, S., & Romeike, R. (2018). How High is the Ceiling? Applying Core Concepts of Block-based Languages to Extend Programming Environments. In Valentina Dagienė, Eglė Jasutė (Eds.), Constructionism 2018: Constructionism, Computational Thinking and Educational Innovation: conference proceedings (pp. 286-294). Vilnius, LT.

MLA:

Jatzlau, Sven, and Ralf Romeike. "How High is the Ceiling? Applying Core Concepts of Block-based Languages to Extend Programming Environments." Proceedings of the Constructionism 2018: Constructionism, Computational Thinking and Educational Innovation, Vilnius Ed. Valentina Dagienė, Eglė Jasutė, 2018. 286-294.

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