Game-themed instructional modules

Abstract

Integration of video games into introductory programming (CS1/2) courses motivates and engages students while contributing to their learning outcomes [17,1,2]. However, it is challenging for general faculty members teaching CS1/2 courses, few of whom have computer graphics or games backgrounds, to integrate video games. Game-Themed Instructional (GTI) Modules are designed specifically to encourage general faculty members to teach CS1/2 concepts using interactive, graphical, game-like examples. Six independent and self-contained GTI modules were created as a collection of interactive graphical example programs designed to demonstrate one single programming concept (e.g., conditional statements). This paper discusses the design parameters and implementation of the GTI modules and describes a case study of selectively adopting some of the GTI modules in an existing CS1 class. The results of the study demonstrate that it is possible for a faculty member with no games or graphics background to blend GTI modules into an existing CS1 class with minimum alterations to established course materials. The GTI modules are excellent catalysts, enabling faculty to begin exploring teaching with game-themed materials and helping students to be more engaged in CS1 topics.

Game-themed programming assignments for faculty

“…These results are exciting because interested faculty can confidently begin limited curriculum scope experimentation with selected GTA modules in their own courses. To further support these faculty members, we have developed limited curriculum scope, self-contained "Game-Themed Instructional" (GTI) modules for teaching individual programming concepts (e.g., linked-lists, or arrays) [2]. We envision interested faculty members experimenting with selected GTA and GTI modules in their existing classes, becoming comfortable with game-themed teaching approach, consulting the tutorials provided with GTA and GTI modules, and beginning to develop their own game-themed materials.…”

“…It is encouraging that as the instructor became more comfortable with GTAs, he did begin experimenting with graphics/game programming and developed a simple card matching game based on the provided tutorials. Currently, the instructor is experimenting with incorporating game-themed instructional modules in his CS1 classes [2].…”

“…In the first of our two-phase project we have successfully designed, developed, and verified the academic merits of the GTA modules [24,23]. 2 This paper describes the en- 1 Other materials include: a description of the assignment, prerequisite knowledge, and expected student learning outcomes; sample pre-and post-tests; a technically equivalent traditional console-based assignment; sample solutions for both the consolebased and game-themed versions; sample grading rubrics; frequently asked questions; and sample student starter projects. 2 All GTA modules are freely available at: http://depts.washington.edu/cmmr/Research/XNA Games/ .…”

Teaching Games Level Design Using the StarCraft II Editor

“…Games have been shown to be effective vehicles for teaching a variety of subjects, such as maths, languages, and science (Razak, Connolly & Hainey, 2012). Games can be used to motivate computer science students to learn programming skills (Angotti, Hillyard, Panitz, Sung & Marino, 2010;Eagle & Barnes, 2009). Students can also gain valuable skills from learning to design games, such as problem solving, reasoning, and creative thinking (Cheng, 2009).…”