VR‐OCKS: A virtual reality game for learning the basic concepts of programming. Issue 1 (2nd October 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Segura, Rafael J.; del Pino, Francisco J.; Ogáyar, Carlos J.; Rueda, Antonio J.
• Is Part Of: Computer applications in engineering education. Volume 28:Issue 1(2020)
• Page Start: 31
• Page End: 41
• Publication Date: 2019-10-02
• Subjects: computer‐based instruction -- computing skills -- interactive learning environments -- virtual reality; Engineering -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- Periodicals; Engineering -- Computer-assisted instruction -- Periodicals; 620
• DOI: 10.1002/cae.22172
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1061-3773

Abstract

Abstract: This paper presents a prototype of a virtual reality (VR) system to teach the basic concepts of programming called VR‐OCKS. The system is inspired by other visual languages such as Scratch or Kodu, and it works by proposing to the user the resolution of simple puzzles in a 3D environment. Several basic commands to a humanoid character, such as advance or turn, together with control flow structures like iteration and conditional selections, are needed to provide a solution for increasingly difficult challenges. Our aim is to attract users, usually children and teenagers, into the world of programming by taking advantage of the appeal and potential of VR. The use of VR‐OCKS strengthened the spatial orientation and autonomy of the users, in addition to enhancing common sense, creative thinking, and systematic reasoning. In our experiments, VR‐OCKS was accepted by adults and children alike and it showed great potential as an educational tool.