Android-based Mobile Device as a Programming Environment in a School Programming Class

Abstract

Background/Objectives: This article conducts a study on using Android-based mobile devices in school-level programming classes and the impact of their use on learning outcomes. Methods: The authors propose hypotheses upon which they create a methodology of building a simple programming environment to run on mobile devices and targeted towards the use in a classroom. Findings: The authors have found optimal ways of building simple programming environment on Android-based mobile devices. They also provide the description of the actual implementation of such an environment. A small dialect of BASIC programming language is used as the primary language of this environment. The environment itself is completely browser-based. The interpreter for this environment is written in JavaScript which is supported by all major Android-based web browsers. The environment is easy to use and implement and provides a transparent graphical user interface which automates the process of editing the program source code. It has been shown that introducing the Androidbased mobile devices into programming classes can streamline the entire learning process in the sphere of programming. The authors have made an emphasis on the benefits which mobile technologies can bring to programming classes. The real-life example of using mobile programming environments in a classroom has been provided. Application: Usage of Android-based mobile devices in programming classes will promote realization of the E-Learning concept, increasing the efficiency of programming teaching process in a school environment.