Interactive Constructionist Scaffolds for Agent-based Modeling and Programming in NetLogo

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

This paper explores the benefits of interactive scaffolds in constructionist learning experiences with Agent-based Modeling and Programming (ABM & P). While many previous studies have supported ABM & P learning, they often lack embedded interactive scaffolds. In a recent study, we introduced the Tortuga Interactive Scaffolding system for designers to build interactive scaffolds for ABM & P with simple commands that can react to learners' emergent interactions and a model's emergent behaviors. To explore the design affordances of this system, we implemented scaffolds for eight agent-based models with three design paradigms: content-agnostic, exploration-oriented, and programming-oriented. With log data collected from out-of-school, online learning contexts, our quantitative analysis shows that exploration-oriented and programming-oriented scaffolds did better to engage learners in constructionist ABM & P activities. We discuss implications for other constructionist learning designers.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationProceedings of Constructionism, FABLEARN 2023
EditorsNathan Holbert, Paulo Blikstein
PublisherAssociation for Computing Machinery
ISBN (Electronic)9798400708961
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 29 2024
Event2023 Constructionism, FABLEARN 2023 - New York City, United States
Duration: Oct 7 2023Oct 11 2023

Publication series

NameACM International Conference Proceeding Series

Conference

Conference2023 Constructionism, FABLEARN 2023
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityNew York City
Period10/7/2310/11/23

Keywords

  • Agent-based Modeling
  • Constructionist Learning
  • Interactive Scaffolds
  • NetLogo

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Human-Computer Interaction
  • Computer Networks and Communications
  • Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition
  • Software

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