Informatics in Education

Research trends on computational thinking (CT) and its learning strategies are showing an increase. The strategies are varying, for example is using games to provide enjoyment, engagement, and experience. To improve the high level of immersion and presence of game objects, learning strategies through games can be improved by virtual reality (VR) technology and its application. However, a systematic review that specifically discusses game based in VR (GBiVR) settings is lacking. This paper reports previous studies systematically about the strategies used to learn CT through games and VR applications. 15 papers were selected through Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. As the result, this study proposes a conceptual framework for designing a strategy to learn CT through GBiVR settings. The framework consists of critical aspects of variables that can be considered in the learning environment like game elements, VR features, and CT skills. All the aspects are discussed below.

The primary purpose of this study is to investigate CT skills development process in learning environments. It is also aimed to determine the conceptual understanding and measurement approaches in the studies. To achieve these aims, a systematic research review methodology was implemented as the research design. Empirical studies on computational thinking indexed in the Web of Science and ERIC databases were selected without constraint on the publication dates. The studies found were examined and a pre-analysis was conducted by the researchers. Following the pre-analysis, 29 articles were selected to be included in the study. Content analysis was applied in order to determine and evaluate the common codes and themes related to the findings. In conclusion, instead of relying on attractiveness, functionality, market share of educational tools (robotic sets, software packets etc.), availability of qualified learning activities focused on problem solving is the main point practitioners should consider.

This research discusses the use of Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality and Mixed Reality technology applications in the learning process of relevant content to the Computer Science area. This systematic review aims to identify applications that use technologies to represent virtual environments and support the teaching and learning of Computer Science subjects. A protocol was elaborated and executed, resulting in the final selection of 14 papers from four databases, published from 2010 to 2018. The examined papers presented information that categorized technology applications in terms of tools used. Contents addressed to the identification of applied instructional strategies and techniques, and the recognition of effects on the learning process. As a result, we found virtual environments that show potential to teaching basic content in courses related to Computer Science. In addition, the application of virtual environments in this educational scenario has provided positive effects on the learning process, such as increased interactivity, easier content absorption, increased motivation and interest in the subjects, providing greater understanding and improving efficiency in content transmission.