Design and Development of a Physical Block Based Logical Programming Stem Educational Tool for Diploma Engineering Students

Neo, Choon Hui (2021) Design and Development of a Physical Block Based Logical Programming Stem Educational Tool for Diploma Engineering Students. Final Year Project (Bachelor), Tunku Abdul Rahman University College.

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Abstract

Programming is a goodway to cultivate computational thinking skills. The physical tangible programming tools available in the market to help users develop their computational thinking are limited to users aged 12 and below. Syntax in text-based programming will impede a diploma engineering student’s progress in the cultivation of problem-solving skills and computational thinking. However, graphical programming which serves as an easier alternative to text-based programming still requires computer handling experience. This might cause an issue to students without much computer operating skills. The proposed method to tackle the problems above is a physical programming education block catered for diploma engineering students. The programming blocks have various logical functions and input-output capabilities. Decision making and looping are implemented in the blocks. Users can build their logical thinking skills in the form of cause and effect analysis using play method. With this project, diploma engineering students can advance in their programming skills, and at the same time improve their computational thinking ability and problem-solving skills. This project will help them in their transition from tangible programming to text-based programming.