TY - GEN
T1 - Learning kinematics in elementary grades using agent-based computational modeling
T2 - 11th International Conference on Interaction Design and Children, IDC 2012
AU - Sengupta, Pratim
AU - Farris, Amy Voss
PY - 2012
Y1 - 2012
N2 - Integrating computational modeling and programming with learning and teaching physics is a non-trivial challenge for educational designers. In this paper, we attempt to address this challenge by presenting ViMAP, a new visual-programming language and modeling platform for learning kinematics, and its underlying design principles. We then report a study conducted with 3 rd and 4 th grade students which shows that using ViMAP, they were able to develop a) deep conceptual understandings of kinematics and b) relevant programming and computational modeling practices. We also identify how the design principles supported the development of these understandings and practices as students engaged in learning activities that integrated modeling, programming and physics.
AB - Integrating computational modeling and programming with learning and teaching physics is a non-trivial challenge for educational designers. In this paper, we attempt to address this challenge by presenting ViMAP, a new visual-programming language and modeling platform for learning kinematics, and its underlying design principles. We then report a study conducted with 3 rd and 4 th grade students which shows that using ViMAP, they were able to develop a) deep conceptual understandings of kinematics and b) relevant programming and computational modeling practices. We also identify how the design principles supported the development of these understandings and practices as students engaged in learning activities that integrated modeling, programming and physics.
UR - http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?scp=84864313254&partnerID=8YFLogxK
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U2 - 10.1145/2307096.2307106
DO - 10.1145/2307096.2307106
M3 - Conference contribution
AN - SCOPUS:84864313254
SN - 9781450310079
T3 - ACM International Conference Proceeding Series
SP - 78
EP - 87
BT - Proceedings of IDC 2012 - The 11th International Conference on Interaction Design and Children
Y2 - 12 June 2012 through 15 June 2012
ER -