Switch Mode: A Tool for Transitioning Students from Block-based to Text-based Programming
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Authors
Society for Information Technology & Teacher Education International Conference, Mar 25, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States ISBN 978-1-939797-76-6
Abstract
This workshop offers a comprehensive, hands-on exploration of the newly developed tool, Switch Mode. Designed to transition students from block- based to text-based programming, Switch Mode serves as a scaffolded middle ground. Switch mode accords learners the ability to weave text-based instructions within a block-based milieu. These innovative blocks can be seamlessly integrated either by direct drag-and-drop actions from the blocks pallet onto the program canvas (Figure 1a) or by activating the convert option on a conventional block via a right-click command (Figure 1b). Participants will engage in hands-on activities with Switch Mode following a brief introduction to its design. The tool utilizes VEX VR and virtual robotics to engage students during the transition phase. In this session, attendees will learn how to incrementally introduce Switch Mode into a classroom setting and how to make use of its debugging features. The workshop aims to equip attendees with practical insights through mock classroom exercises. Thus, all attendees will experience the process of transitioning from block-based to text-based programming. By the end of this session, participants will leave with 3-5 mini-activities ready for classroom implementation to support students in their programming journey.
Citation
McKenna, J. & Lin, Y. (2024). Switch Mode: A Tool for Transitioning Students from Block-based to Text-based Programming. In J. Cohen & G. Solano (Eds.), Proceedings of Society for Information Technology & Teacher Education International Conference (pp. 1181-1184). Las Vegas, Nevada, United States: Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE). Retrieved August 10, 2024 from https://www.learntechlib.org/p/224111.
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