Informatics in Education

The contents taught in the programming subjects have a great relevance in the formation of computing students. However, these subjects are characterized by high failure rates, as they require logical reasoning and mathematical knowledge. Thus, establishing knowledge through the subject of algorithms can help students to overcome these difficulties and absorb the contents and skills required. Thus, this work aims to present and discuss the results of a second experiment on the application of a teaching plan composed of several active methodologies (Virtual Learning Environments, Coding Dojo, Gamification, Problem-Based Learning, Flipped Classroom and Serious Games) in an algorithms subject. Based on this experiment, it was evaluated whether there were learning gains compared to the learning acquired with the traditional method. Finally, an analysis was performed using the two-tailed Student-t approach, used for independent samples, which presented statistically significant results.

The paper examines the impact of ICT on students learning experiences and opportunities offered by virtual learning environment as an integral part of traditional learning environment in the experimental course ``Integration of information literacy skills into ESP programme'' at Mykolas Romeris University (Lithuania). The experiment aimed at developing students' information literacy and social skills as the means for enhancement of learning with a particular attention towards foreign language competencies. The integrated information literacy course into ESP (English for specific purposes) syllabus addressed students' needs of information literacy skills striving for better performance and efficiency in academic studies. The focal points of the research presented in the paper are: a) students' attitudes towards the learning environment offered by software Moodle; b) information literacy knowledge and skills developed within and with the assistance of Moodle; c) enhancement of social communication and collaboration; d) the impact of information literacy course on ESP competencies in a complex learning environment.

It is commonly agreed that a well-balanced mix of collaboration, training and simulation eventually produce a superior learner. Today's collaborative design and learning environments integrate variety of interactive objects as well as many technological aspects to achieve such balance. Unfortunately, the actual profit of the resulting learning systems is largely reduced by poorly represented interactive objects as well as poor interlinking between such objects. In particular, such objects appear isolated: they neither can be modified sufficiently (e.g., by choosing parameters or enhancing functionality) nor be interlinked properly with their context (e.g., by synchronizing with a guided tour or metadata). We are presenting in this article a model for representing virtual and 3D scenes as learning objects. The model utilizes notions and techniques based on Scene Graphs, X3D, Java3D, and SceneBeans. The prototype accompanied with a simple client-server protocol for exchanging and viewing the 3D SceneBeans. This research aims to extend this protocol by utilizing Sun JXTA primitives to link to the POOL of other learning objects repositories.