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
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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