Enhancing Programming learnability for Children through Video Games

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.34190/ecgbl.19.2.3981

Keywords:

Gamification, Edutainment, video games, learnability, children, programming

Abstract

This paper explores the potential of video games as an effective medium for teaching programming concepts to children leveraging gamification principles to enhance engagement. Through the development and testing of an educational game called “Codonia” implementing challenge-based learning and interactive feedback, this research examines how game mechanics support problem-solving and logical thinking. After a qualitative and quantitative study, the results indicate that gamification fosters increased motivation and confidence, suggesting that well-structured educational games can complement or surpass traditional teaching methods. By demonstrating how digital learning environments encourage experimentation and sustained engagement, this study contributes to the broader discourse on innovative educational tools for programming instruction.

Author Biographies

Nora Volina, University of Vienna

Nora studied across the United States, North Macedonia, and Austria. Her research focuses on children's educational games, aiming to develop an interactive platform that transforms video games into engaging tools for edutainment and meaningful learning. She is especially interested in playful design, narrative mechanics, and cross-cultural accessibility in game-based learning.

Helmut Hlavacs

Helmut Hlavacs is a Professor of Applied Computer Science at the
University of Vienna, leading the Education, Didactics and Entertainment
Computing research group. His research focuses on computer game
technologies, multimedia communication, and gamification. He is a
co-founder of a company providing IT services and applies serious games
and gamification to patient therapy and well-being.

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Published

2025-09-26

Issue

Vol. 19 No. 2 (2025): The Proceedings of the 19th European Conference on Games Based Learning

Section

Masters papers