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Applying Computational Thinking and Live Coding to Create Serious Games for an Introductory Physics Course

Published 2025-07-07
Articles

Abstract

A didactic proposal based on the integration of gamified active learning strategies, inductive learning, supervised learning, and faded worked challenges is reported to assist in the development of problem-solving computational thinking skills. This methodological integration is organized in stages of increasing difficulty climbing Bloom’s taxonomy levels. The application of this method to develop a serious game for modeling physical phenomena is also reported, establishing a sequence of faded worked challenges solved autonomously by learners through live programming under the supervision of a mentor. The proposal was implemented in a Physics course with fourth-semester industrial engineering students and advanced computer systems students, who developed a serious game to apply kinematics concepts. When evaluating the projects, comparable performance was found between both groups, and the qualitative results obtained via surveys indicated a high degree of acceptance of the method, favorable attitude changes towards Physics, thus partially proving the effectiveness of the surgeon method focused on supervised problem-solving by applying computational thinking skills through live programming with faded challenges.

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Authors

  • Alberto Pacheco-González

    TecNM Tecnológico Nacional de México

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