Introducing Python through simple game creation : a helper library approach

Abstract

The aim of this study is to determine the suitability of using a simple game creation helper library to introduce programming in secondary schools. A Python helper library which interacts with the Python Arcade Library API, has been created. This helper library is intended to make the students introduction to programming more enjoyable, whilst abstracting them from the complexities of the Python Arcade Library. A guiding booklet for teachers has also been created to accompany the Python helper library. The participants (in-service Computing teachers) were required to review the booklet and the python library that were created during this dissertation. Afterwards, the participants were invited to participate in an online qualitative interview to share their views on the material provided. The views of in-service computing teachers were overwhelmingly positive. Every participant believed that the helper library has the potential of increasing the students’ motivation to learn programming. Their reasons included the helper library’s innovation, its ability to cater for different student interests and their confidence that it can be beneficial for students of varying abilities. Moreover, they noted the high level of detail in the booklet accompanying the helper library, which in turn makes it straightforward for teachers to follow. Despite their positive views, the participants made a few suggestions for improvement. Firstly, they suggested that the code in the booklet should be copyable, such that they would not need to type it every time. Secondly, they recommended the inclusion of complete code listings for each game in the booklet itself. Thirdly, they suggested the inclusion of notes and tasks for the students.