Discovering Programming Talent and Improving Learning Motivation with CodeCombat in K-12 Education

Wan Chong Choi, Iek Chong Choi

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Nurturing programming talent early is crucial in today's digital world, especially in K-12 education, underscored by the rise of programming competitions for younger students. However, with limited research in programming talent search, discovering programming talent in primary schools posed a significant challenge. Traditionally, various test-based talent search tools have been utilized for programming talent identification, including the Computer Talent Search Test (CTST) and the Beginners Computational Thinking Test (BCTt). Game-based platforms like CodeCombat offer an engaging alternative to overcome this challenge. CodeCombat integrates game-based learning with programming education, allowing students to apply their computational thinking skills in an enjoyable context for learning Python. The study revealed a significant correlation between CodeCombat, CTST, and BCTt outcomes. This highlighted that CodeCombat emerged as a valuable platform for talent search, aligning seamlessly with the objectives of the test-based tools and suggesting its effectiveness in boosting programming learning motivation in primary school.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationEDUNINE 2024 - 8th IEEE World Engineering Education Conference
Subtitle of host publicationEmpowering Engineering Education: Breaking Barriers through Research and Innovation, Proceedings
EditorsClaudio da Rocha Brito, Melany M. Ciampi
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc.
ISBN (Electronic)9798350348729
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2024
Externally publishedYes
Event8th IEEE World Engineering Education Conference, EDUNINE 2024 - Hybid, Guatemala City, Guatemala
Duration: 10 Mar 202413 Mar 2024

Publication series

NameEDUNINE 2024 - 8th IEEE World Engineering Education Conference: Empowering Engineering Education: Breaking Barriers through Research and Innovation, Proceedings

Conference

Conference8th IEEE World Engineering Education Conference, EDUNINE 2024
Country/TerritoryGuatemala
CityHybid, Guatemala City
Period10/03/2413/03/24

Keywords

  • CodeCombat
  • K-12 programming education
  • Learning motivation
  • Programming talent search

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