PERC 2021 Abstract Detail Page
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| Abstract Title: | Design of a scaffolded interactive for integration of computational thinking into introductory physics |
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| Abstract: | STEPP is a new scaffolded interactive resource that runs in a web browser designed to integrate computational thinking into support of the learning of introductory physics. With a flexible, problem-solving focus utilizing the computer science framework of Finite State Machines (i.e., state diagrams), STEPP is a novel approach to programming in a physics classroom that does not depend on knowledge of a programming language. Through an intuitive graphical interface built in the game-engine Unity, students are empowered to create their own models and simulations to dynamically visualize the problems they encounter in their study of 1D kinematics, 2D kinematics, and Newton's laws of motion. Multiple mathematical representations of motion further support physics learning. The computational thinking skills taught through interaction with STEPP center around physics problem-solving (decomposition and algorithmic thinking), modeling, and abstraction. Although initially designed for on-level high school physics, STEPP is equally applicable for use in Advanced Placement and university introductory mechanics courses. |
| Abstract Type: | Contributed Poster Presentation |
| Session Time: | Poster Session 1 Room C |
| Poster Number: | 1C-5 |
Author/Organizer Information | |
| Primary Contact: |
Mary Urquhart The University of Texas at Dallas Richardson, TX 75080 Phone: 972-883-2499 |
| Co-Author(s) and Co-Presenter(s) |
Midori Kitagawa, The University of Texas at Dallas Paul Fishwick, The University of Texas at Dallas Rosanna Guadagno, Stanford University Michael Kesden, University of Texas at Dallas Ken Suura, University of Texas at Dallas |
