RoboBUG: a game-based approach to learning debugging techniques

Debugging is the systematic process of finding and fixing errors in a computer program, and it is considered a critical skill that should be acquired early in a programmer's career. As an alternative to traditional approaches for learning debugging, we propose the use of a game-based approach for introducing debugging techniques. Specifically, we designed a game called RoboBUG in which a player assumes the role of a futuristic programmer trying to find “bugs" in a mechanical suit. We then conducted an evaluation to assess novice programmers playing the RoboBUG game and novices who instead completed a traditional written assignment. Our results found that study participants reported a positive attitude towards using games for learning, and those who played the RoboBUG game believed it to be more fun and engaging than written assignments.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Science (MSc)

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Computer Science

Grantor

University of Ontario Institute of Technology

Year dc:date.issued

2015

Author dc:creator

• Miljanovic, Michael A.

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Bradbury, Jeremy

• Bugs
• Debugging
• Game-based learning
• Education
• Serious games

Language dc:language.iso

en

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/10155/536

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:ontariotechu.scholaris.ca:10155/536